John R. Townsend Jr., known as ‘Big John’
John R. Townsend Jr. “Big John,” of Millsboro passed away Thursday, Sept. 13, 2018, at Milford Memorial Hospital in Milford.
John was born in Milford May 25, 1952, son of the late John and Hilda (Lynch) Townsend. He was a 1970 graduate of Indian River High School.
“Big John” was an entrepreneur, who owned and operated Townsend’s Total Performance in Dagsboro in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He was well-known throughout the racing community for his engine-building skills and ability to get performance out of an engine.
John then operated Townsend’s Farm Markets from 1985 to 1992, having produce stands in Long Neck, Millsboro, Lewes, South Bethany and Dagsboro areas. In 1993, he became an independent district operator for the Daily Times newspaper, where he managed about 75 percent of the distribution of daily, weekly and free publications.
John will be remembered as a loving and devoted father and grandfather, and his unbelievable knowledge on engine building of high-performance race engines. He also was respected for his willingness to take on a challenge, including taking risks in business.
He is survived by his two children, Rusty Townsend and his wife Ashley of Milford, and Michelle Townsend of Frankford; two grandchildren, Madyson Townsend and Jackson Townsend; two brothers, Donald Townsend and his wife Alicia of Downingtown, Pa., Roy Townsend of Millsboro; the mother of his two children, Susan Townsend of Millsboro, and several nieces and nephews.
A celebration of “Big John’s” life will be held from 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 30, at the Selbyville Volunteer Fire Company, 30 N. Main St.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be sent to the Georgetown Speedway for the John Townsend Memorial Big Block Feature at the Mid-Atlantic Championships Oct. 27. All donations will be paid out to the winning driver as a bonus from the friends and family of Big John Townsend. Donations are payable to BD Motorsports Media, 26781 Curlew Way, Millsboro, DE 19966.
Arrangements by Melson Funeral Services, Millsboro.
Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.
