This week, I ordered T-shirts in memory of one of my dearest friends, Johnny Capitano Jr.

The front of the shirt, in big print, will read: I’m a work in progress. Under the words in small script is: Johnny Capitano Jr. – 2/17/53 – 11/4/16. The back will read: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.” 2 Timothy 4:7.

Who was Johnny Capitano?

He was a native of New Orleans and was one of the most popular boxers as an amateur and professional.

I met him three years ago when he came to our 6:15 Friday morning men’s Bible sharing. He always wore a Christian T-shirt promoting Jesus as his Savior and always sat next to me at the meeting.

Whenever someone would get down on themselves, Johnny would say, “Just remember, you’re a work in progress.”

Johnny attended our meetings for two years and moderated several times.

On Nov. 4 of last year, the topic was, “Is Jesus the focus of your life?”

Johnny was never one to interrupt, but that morning after a few men spoke, he did. He shared that if Jesus isn’t your focus, every other area of your life will have problems. Not feeling well, he excused himself and went to the restroom.

Noticing he stayed a little longer than usual, someone went to check on him. Johnny had died.

It will soon be a year since his death, but we remember Johnny as a man who showed us how to live and was prepared for death.

He is survived by his loving wife, Callie, daughters Tracy Logan (Robert) and Lisa Rednour (Kyle) and five grandchildren.

I was honored to be asked to preside at his funeral.

My friend, Johnny, was one of the most unforgettable men I’ve ever met!

If you have any questions or comments, please write Harold Keller at Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call 985-652-8477 or email hkeller@comcast.net.