In memory of our son, father, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, the Dance family remembers the life and legacy of John Robert Dance, of Flagler County, Florida. John passed away peacefully on November 22, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 15, 1959.
In 1972, his family relocated to Flagler County, where he later graduated in 1977 from Flagler Palm Coast High School, where he was active as a member of the wresting team and the Future Farmers of America (FFA). John earned the prestigious American Farmer Degree from the Future Farmers of America in 1980.
In 1987, John married Marylyn Penny, and together they built a life full of adventure and family. John's career with the Florida Highway Patrol spanned over two decades, where he proudly served as a K-9 handler and worked in traffic homicide. In the line of duty, he was shot and awarded a Purple Heart for his valor. A dedicated public servant, John also became a certified concealed carry instructor before retiring in 2013.
Outside of his work, John had a passion for the outdoors. He loved camping at Big Pine Key with family and friends, and his enthusiasm for boating, fishing, and lobstering was well known. He also enjoyed hunting and was a devoted dog breeder. John’s larger-than-life personality and zest for life left an indelible mark on those who knew him. On the weekends, you would find John, Marylyn and Ranger at the Flagler Beach Farmer’s Market, where John was sharpening knives for customers as JD’s Knife Sharpening and Marylyn would be selling her handmade jewelry.
John was a cattle rancher at heart until the day he died. Growing up in the family cattle business, known as "T Double L Ranch" on South Old Kings Road, John found a home and purpose with FFA, raising and showing cattle at the Flagler County Fair. John was also a constant fixture at the Flagler County Cattleman’s Association “Craker Day”, spending hours cooking and slicing the famous beef lunch.
In this tradition, the family is organizing a fundraiser in John's memory. Funds raised will benefit the Flagler County Fair and Youth Show's 4H and FFA Scholarship Fund. All funds raised will go to Flagler County Fair and Youth Show, Inc., PO Box 544, Bunnell, FL 32110 to benefit 4H and FFA students.
The entire Dance family thanks you for remembering and honoring John in this way.
"There are no goodbyes for us, you will always be in our hearts"!