John J. Fifty, Jr.

 John J Fifty Jr., 81, died August 6, 2024, after a period of declining health. 

 He was born in Manchester on September 17, 1942 to the late John J. and Laurette (Fillion) Fifty Sr. He resided in both Manchester and then Londonderry until a recent relocation to Enfield, ME. 

 In 1961, John began working as a supervisor with Velcro USA Inc. In 1980, he made a career change when he joined and remained part of the sales force of AlCuMet Inc. for 10 years. Following a short break he returned to sales joining Pelmac Industries where he would work his last 20 years leading into retirement. 

 In conjunction with a day job, John sought a career as a musician and singer. This by far was his ‘favorite’ career of all. His passion for music and performing started early. At the tender age of 14 he performed at a county fair. Years later he would DJ part-time for Angelo’s Restaurant in Manchester while also pursuing a career in music with his first band, ‘The Mod.’ He would also take the stage with his brother, Frank, and fellow musician, Roger Pratte aka Sonny Lane under the name, ‘Sonny and the Fifty Brothers, plus two.’ But ultimately the band he was most proud of and known for was the band named after his surname, ‘Fifty and Change.’ They would perform for almost 20 years making regular appearances at The Alibi and The Zodiac Room. John’s love of music was evident by his impressive vinyl collection of more than 3,200 albums and 45’s not to mention his beloved jukebox.

 John was also a very proud member of the Sons of the American Legion for over 31 years and a lifetime member of the Halcyon Club. He had a fondness for everything Coca Cola, Las Vegas and Elvis. He had a great sense of humor and a love affair with his Mustang convertible. 

 John was predeceased by his first wife, Claire (Lemire) Fifty; his son, Mark and daughter, Kelley A.; his brother, Francis R. ‘Frank’ Fifty and his granddaughter, Madeleine Elizabeth.

 He is survived by his former wife, Jeanne M. (Bouchard) Fifty; three children, Michelle Reney and her husband, Lyle, John J. Fifty III and his wife, Leah, and Kelley J. St. Pierre and her husband, Jeff; three grandchildren, Cody, Emily and Sebastian; and cousins, nieces and nephews. 

 SERVICES: There are no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday (8/13) at 10:30 a.m. at St. Anthony Church, 172 Belmont St., Manchester. Committal prayers will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, 448 Donald St., Bedford.

 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Salvation Army, 121 Cedar Street, Manchester, NH 03101