John Conner Updike Junior
Lake Wales
John Conner Updike Junior, born June 5, 1951, in Lake Wales, Florida, passed away October 5, 2026. Mr. Updike attended Lake Wales High School where he played in the band, was drum major, and graduated in 1969. He graduated from Washington and Lee University in 1973, with a degree in Commerce. He was in the Sigma Nu Fraternity. Mr. Updike was a citrus grower, and worked in the family business, Alcoma, throughout his life. He continued work in the industry through the Citrus Research and Development Foundation, where he served as board member for many years. He had a deep love for his family and throughout his life, he enjoyed nature, hunting, fishing, traveling, and hiking the North Carolina Mountains.
Mr. Updike is survived by his family, children Abigail Updike Skipper (Alan), John Conner Updike, III (Margaret), Maria McKay Updike, Letta Updike Young (James), and Susan Penelope Updike and 11 grandchildren, Emily Abigail, Katherine McKay, Elizabeth Conner, Anna Claire Radford, Ella Grace, Riley Jean, Dylan Conner, Hannah Maria, Jesse James, Tristan Cathcart, and Gryffin Updike. He is also survived by his sisters, Letta Updike Taylor, Peggy Updike Knight, and Kay Updike Clegg. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Conner Updike; and his beloved wife, Penny McKay Updike.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, October 9, 2026 at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Lake Wales.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to be made in John Conner Updike Junior’s honor, to the Lake Wales Care Center, Victory Ridge Academy, and the Church of the Good Shepherd. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.
