John "Johnny" Henry Saylor

John “Johnny” Henry Saylor, The Famous Boxing Barber, a legend, a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on June 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving daughters. He was 84 years old. Born on July 2, 1940, in Pineville, Kentucky, to Vernon and Nettie (Spurlock) Saylor, Johnny was one of 13 children. He was raised alongside his siblings in Michigan City, Indiana, before settling in Crown Point, Indiana, where he proudly lived out his years. In Crown Point, he built a life rich in family, friendship, and community but always remained proud of his Kentucky roots. In 1961, Johnny married Linda Ruth Burger. Together, they raised three children, Sherry, Laura and Johnny, in Crown Point. They shared 22 years of marriage before Linda’s passing from cancer in 1983. John is also preceded in death by his second wife Gail Cherbak. A local legend in every sense, Johnny was a two-time Chicago Golden Gloves Champion in 1961 and 1962. In 1963, his boxing career reached its peak with a fight in Madison Square Garden before he stepped away from the ring to focus on his family and his career as a barber. Johnny remained deeply passionate about the sport, mentoring aspiring fighters for many years. Known affectionately as “The Boxing Barber” and “The Champ,” Johnny was a familiar and beloved figure on the Crown Point Square, where he owned and operated his barber shop, “Saylor’s,” for 60 years. Johnny was a well-liked man and enjoyed the simple pleasures in life: good music, a cold beer, and the company of friends and family. He was well known for his selflessness, kindness, and quick wit, always putting others before himself. Naturally funny, Johnny had a way of making people laugh and feel at ease, no matter the situation. A testament to his legendary spirit, he once famously wrestled a bear at the Lake County Fairgrounds—and won. His unique persona as a boxing barber earned him numerous features in local newspapers. Johnny was the life of the party and found joy in dancing, exercising, hunting, camping, fishing, and golfing. He loved music and listened to anything, ranging from classic country to Motown and especially The Eagles. Johnny was a proud 60-year member of the Crown Point Fraternal Order of Eagles #2659 and the Crown Point Moose Lodge #260. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wives, Linda and Gail; his only son, Johnny who recently passed away on May 26, 2025; and his siblings, Eve Ellen, Dorothy, Erie, Jess, Denver, David, Beaula, Connie, Paul, and James. Johnny’s legacy lives on through his daughters, Laura Saylor and Sherry Saylor-Dorulla (Dan); his grandchildren, Ryan and Jake Dorulla; his great-grandchildren, Owen and Sadie; his sister, Wanda; his brother, Ronnie; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family who will miss him dearly. John Saylor might be gone but legends never die. John and Johnny walked through those pearly gates together and they’re up there having a cold one! We will celebrate the lives of John and Johnny together on July 12, 2025, from 3:00 PM-8:00 PM – food will be served, (cash bar) at The American Legion Post #20 in Crown Point, Indiana. There will be a brief Eagles Service at 6:00 PM. Bring a lawn chair if you want or sit outside under the pavilion, let’s have a toast to the two Johnny’s. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family. Burns Funeral Home & Crematory, Crown Point, IN, entrusted with arrangements. www.burnsfuneral.com

John "Johnny" Henry Saylor

July 2, 1940 - June 7, 2025