John Cromer Mabus, 69, of Indianola, passed away Sunday, January 24, 2016 at Delta Regional Medical Center in Greenville. John was born July 26, 1946 in Indianola, and was the son of Cromer Edwin Daniel and Beulah Dixon Riley Mabus.

John served his country as a Staff Sergeant in the Mississippi Army National Guard from 1966 until his retirement in 2006. He worked for the United States Postal Service until his retirement, and then worked for Adam Snell Farms as a truck driver. He was a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Indianola.

John was affectionately known to almost everyone as Santa Claus. He spent many, many Christmas Eves going from one home to the next to spread joy and excitement to each child. John said many times being able to share Christmas in the homes of our community gave him as much, if not more, joy and happiness than the families received. He was very instrumental in helping parents encourage their little ones to jump in bed and cover their heads! He was a very attentive father and grandfather. His rosy cheeks and contagious laughter will be missed by all that knew and loved him.

John was preceded in death by his parents. He leaves to cherish his memory two sons, John Barrett Mabus of Fort Benning, Georgia, Daniel Atwell Mabus of Brandon, Mississippi; two daughters, Tiffany Mabus Wargo of Booneville, Arkansas, Amanda Mabus Pickens of Monticello, Arkansas; two sisters, Ruby Mabus Little of Pearl, Mississippi, Roberta Mabus Hendon of Grenada, Mississippi; nine grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, January 26, 2016 from 2:00 pm until the 3:00 pm memorial service at Burton Funeral Home.