The singer John Lennon was born in war-time Liverpool to Lennon’s parents, Alfred and Julia Lennon, on Oct. 9, 1940. His father, a merchant seaman of Irish descent, was away at the time of John’s birth and for much of his life.
Discover the fascinating story of John Lennon’s parents, Alfred and Julia Lennon, who played a pivotal role in shaping the legendary musician’s life and career until his passing on December 8, 1980.
Born on October 9, 1940, to Alfred and Julia, John Lennon was their only child together. However, Julia went on to have three more children with two other men, while Alfred had two more sons with his second wife Pauline.
Tragedy struck the family when Julia passed away at the age of 44 on July 15, 1958, just months before John’s 18th birthday. Her untimely death deeply affected John, inspiring him to dedicate the songs “Julia” and “Mother” to her memory.
Alfred Lennon and Julia’s Relationship
Alfred and Julia first crossed paths as teenagers at a club in Liverpool, England. They eventually married in secret on December 3, 1938, facing disapproval from Julia’s family. Alfred’s attempts to financially support Julia were met with challenges, leading him to work as a Merchant Navy steward. Julia discovered she was pregnant in January 1940, but World War II interrupted their lives, with Alfred being called back to sea.
John was born on October 9, 1940, while Alfred was still abroad. Julia began dating John Dykins, and despite being legally married to Alfred, she moved in with Dykins. Julia’s sister, Mimi Smith, raised John, although he frequently visited Julia and Dykins. Alfred returned to visit John in 1946, but his plan to emigrate with John to New Zealand was thwarted by Julia.
Despite living with Mimi, John remained close to Julia, sharing a love for music. Julia, who never officially divorced Alfred, went on to have more children with different partners.
Alfred Lennon and John Lennon’s Turbulent Relationship
After years of minimal contact, Alfred and John reunited during the height of the Beatles’ fame in the 1960s. The reunion was marked by a surprising encounter at a hotel where Alfred worked as a kitchen porter. John initially resisted reconciliation, but Cynthia, John’s wife, encouraged him to reconnect with his father.
Alfred’s desire for reconciliation faced challenges, and despite a few attempts, the relationship remained strained. Alfred passed away on April 1, 1976, but not before leaving a manuscript detailing his life story for John. The manuscript provided insights into Alfred’s perspective, fostering some understanding between father and son. John and Alfred reconciled on Alfred’s deathbed.
Julia Lennon’s Tragic Death in 1958
Julia’s life took a tragic turn when, on July 15, 1958, she was hit by a car while crossing the street during a visit to Mimi. Despite efforts to save her, Julia died instantly at the age of 44. Her sudden death deeply affected John, leading him to immortalize her memory through songs like “Julia.”
John, who once expressed losing his mother twice, carried the emotional weight of Julia’s absence throughout his life. He honored her legacy by naming his first son, Julian, after her.
The complex dynamics between Alfred, Julia, and John Lennon have left an indelible mark on the music icon’s life and career, contributing to the depth of his emotional expression and artistic creations.
