John Arthur Mickens was born in Tallahassee, Florida on March 8, 1960. He was the son of Lonnie Kelly and Hester Mickens. John, who was lovingly called "Muff" by his family and friends, was preceded in death by his mother and two sisters, Gwendolyn Kelly Jones and Margaret Spicer.

"Muff" grew up in the Lake Jackson area of Leon County. He and his family worshipped in the neighborhood at Friendship African Methodist Episcopal Church. After confessing Christ at an early age, "Muff" was a longtime member of Friendship until he moved out of state. Growing up, "Muff" attended the public schools of Leon County. At an early age, he learned how to hunt and fish and was regarded as a great outdoorsman. He became a gifted craftsman and worked as a carpenter for many years. In the early 2000's "Muff" moved from Tallahassee to Georgetown, Kentucky where he remained until his passing.

On Saturday, January 18, 2020, God saw fit to summon Brother John Arthur "Muff" Mickens Home for his eternal rest. His love and memory will be cherished forever by his wife: Janet Mickens; daughter: Kayla Nicole Mickens; granddaughter: Anabel Lee Mickens, all of Georgetown, KY; father: Lonnie Kelly of Havana, FL; brothers: Ernest Mickens, James Henderson, Jr., Joseph Lamb and Kenneth Kelly, all of Tallahassee, FL, Herbert (Elizabeth) Mickens, Ocala, FL and Fred Kelly of Havana, FL; sister: Fannie (James) Jackson, Tallahassee, FL, Sabrina Kelly Cromartie and Brenda Jakes, both of Havana, FL; a special aunt: Maggie Mickens of Tallahassee, FL; special cousins: Walter Mickens, Tallahassee, FL and MacArthur Mickens of Port St. Lucie, FL; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and loving friends.