Obituary of Andrew Jemison

Andrew “John” Jemison, 77. John was a founding member of the popular local band The Blazers established in 1959, with his sister Lynn and their close friends, where they were mainstays at Olson’s Bar in Toms River. John was a member of the electrician’s union before teaching electrical trades at Ocean County Vocational Technical school for 25 years. His parents were the original owners of the Dover Diner established in 1949, where they were famous for their slogan, “Eat here or we’ll both starve!” John and his family brought joy to many people during the holiday season with the Vermont Avenue Christmas Village where Santa Claus made many appearances. John is pre-deceased by his parents, Andrew and Elaine and his son, Andrew “Andy” John Jemison III. He is survived by his beloved wife Patricia and daughters, Eileen and Matthew Sochacki and Tara and Vincent Williams and his grandchildren Cheyenne, Joseph, Andrew, and Ryan. John is also survived by his sister, Dr. Lynn Coddington and her husband Phillip and their son Phillip Jr. The family will have a memorial service May 8 from 2pm-6pm. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in John’s honor to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital.