John Carl Barfield, Jr. was born November 5, 1939, in Chicago, Illinois to his parents John, Sr. and Hattie Lue Davis Barfield. John Carl was the second child of four siblings. He attended St. Mary's Catholic Church, in Evanston.

He attended the Catholic schools and graduated from Cathedral High School in 1959.  He continued his education at Admundsen-Mayfair Jr., and DePaul University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1972, and a Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois, graduating with honors in 1975.  He also attained a Master of Nursing in Health Care Systems/Nursing Administration from the University of San Diego's Hahn School of Nursing and Health Sciences.

John Carl specialized in clinical social work and was licensed to diagnose and treat mental, behavioral and emotional disorders.  As a Registered Nurse, he well understood the world of medicine as he encompassed his life with research in various capacities including as a lecturer, nursing director, an adjunct professor and chief. He had over 47 years of experience to say the least.

He related to St. Martin de Porres, a patron saint of social justice, racial harmony, and mixed-race people; who was Peruvian Friar noted for his kindness, his nursing of the sick, his obedience, and his charity. John Carl lived by St. Martin's quote: "Be with us in our struggle today. To love all people without exception as god does. John Carl was founder of a nonprofit organization, CMA (Cuz Men Alliance) which promoted counseling and re-entry services to those in need.

On June 13, 2022, John Carl's earthly life ended and he was called to the Gates of Eternity. He was preceded in death by his sister Delores, his father, and his mother.

He leaves to cherish his memory and legacy to brothers Bruce and Timmy; nephews Deron Coleman, Timothy Drumgoul and Antoine Lewis; nieces Shasta Barfield, Khella Barfield and Latricia Freeman.