John Allen Bull

John Allen Bull, born Oct. 18, 1946, passed from this life on July 20, 2026, after a lifetime of faith, service, leadership, and devotion to his family. He leaves behind a legacy measured not only by the positions he held, but by the countless lives he influenced along the way.

John was, at his core, an educator. Throughout a distinguished career that carried him from vocational agriculture teacher to school administrator and ultimately superintendent of education, he never lost sight of the calling that defined his life. If asked what he did for a living, he would simply answer, “I’m an educator.”

Early in his career, John moved from Wiggins to Topeka to establish an agricultural education program. He believed deeply in the value of education, hard work, and personal responsibility. While he achieved much professionally, he measured success not by titles or accomplishments, but by the success of his students. Over the years, those students became farmers, business owners, educators, public servants, and leaders in their communities. Their achievements brought him great pride and stood as a lasting testament to the investment he made in their lives.

Retirement did not slow him down. After concluding his career as superintendent of education, he operated a small business installing septic systems before returning to the school system as a “part-time” principal. Those who knew John understood that “part-time” was never an accurate description. He approached every responsibility with dedication and purpose, giving his full effort to every task and every person entrusted to his care.

John’s faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. A faithful member of Topeka Baptist Church, he served in many capacities through the years. He was a deacon, a Gideon, participated in mission work, and faithfully taught the men’s Sunday School class until advancing dementia no longer allowed him to continue. He loved teaching God’s Word and encouraging others in their faith, and his quiet example often spoke louder than his lessons.

Outside of his professional and church life, John found joy and peace in the outdoors. An avid deer hunter, he spent much of the year enjoying the woods he loved. There, he found fellowship, reflection, and a deep appreciation for God’s creation. Many treasured memories were made in deer camps, hunting stands, and around the conversations that always seemed to follow.

Above all, John was devoted to his family. He shared 58 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Cris, building a home grounded in faith, commitment, and love. Together, they were blessed with three children: Jonas (Sophie) Bull, Lana (Jason) Runnels, and Micah (Ashley) Bull.

He was also blessed with nine grandchildren: Devon Bull, Tessa Wright, Jack Bull, John Runnels, Evie Runnels, Lily Runnels, James Runnels, Brody Bull, and Molly Bull; and four great-grandchildren: Maelys, Kelsey, Audrey, and Evelyn. Mr. Bull was also blessed with two bonus grandsons, Hunter Harrison and Dustin Bond.

As a father, John was a steady and trusted presence. He was a patient listener, never quick to interrupt and never eager to make a conversation about himself. Those who sought his advice knew they would be heard. His wisdom was thoughtful, practical, and grounded in experience.

He did not expect his children to be the best; he simply expected them to give their best. Through both word and example, he taught the values of integrity, diligence, humility, and faithfulness. As the years passed, he became not only a father but also a mentor and trusted friend. His guidance shaped lives, his example influenced decisions, and his presence brought comfort and confidence to those who loved him.

John’s life was marked by a simple but profound commitment to investing in others. Whether teaching a student, mentoring a young educator, serving his church, encouraging a friend, or guiding his family, he sought to leave people better than he found them. His influence will continue through the generations of students he taught, the communities he served, the church he loved, and the family he cherished.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Gideons International or to Topeka Baptist Church’s Debt Retirement Fund.

John will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Mrs. Cris and the family would like to extend special thanks to the Arden Hospice for their care of Mr. John these past few months – especially our nurses and aids Alicia, Natalie, Grace, and Desiree. Even more so, we want to give our deepest thanks to Renee Dunaway, Shane Davis, and Zoe Dunaway for the love and care they have given to Mr. John but also Mrs. Cris. The impact made during this time cannot be underestimated. You have truly been the hands and feet of Christ.