Aug. 18, 1952 – Dec. 18, 2007
On August 18, 1952, Johnnie L. Triplett, affectionately known as “Big John,” was born in Macon, Miss. to the union of John and Lena Triplett, the eldest of five children. He accepted Christ at an early age and attended St. Louis Public Schools and St. Louis Community College at Forest Park. He was a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.
After a brief career in the U.S. Military, he was honorably discharged. He completed an apprenticeship with Bricklayers Local 1 and later joined the brotherhood of Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 562. He served as a Pipefitter and union organizer with Local 562 for over 29 years, organizing non-union shops and fighting for quality jobs and wages.
He worked for inclusion within the union membership. As a member of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, he worked with other union members to create an organization called Men Who Care, which raised money for charity.
On October 18, 1975, Johnnie and Jill Bass were united in holy matrimony. Two children were born to this union, Kacie Starr Triplett and Travis John Triplett (Jeralynn).
He passed Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2007. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving parents, John and Lena Triplett; four sisters, Rebecca McClure, Jennifer Whitfield (Scott), Tracy Triplett and Brenda Triplett, who preceded him in death; a granddaughter Christiana; an expected grandson due January 2008; a special friend, Ms. Diane Johnson; and a host of friends and other relatives.
Comptroller Darlene Green said, “The St. Louis community lost a great man, father and labor representative in John. I know he was very proud of his daughter, Kacie, and her career in public service. His legacy will live on through her.”