John Wallace Thomasson

JT, Big Bod, Thor, Sunshine, Big John, Johnny T., or Bro. Regardless of how you knew John, you knew he was destined for greatness. He greeted everyone with his infectious smile, always leaving a lasting impression on their soul. He was truly a bright star with a big heart in the lives of those around him.

From an early age John carried two traits with him that would define his life, compassion, and competitiveness. Whether it was learning soccer from his sister or struggling at age five to get across the swimming pool so he could join the swim team. On his travel soccer team, he was known as The Train, since nothing stopped him from reaching the goal, whether it was a foul or not. He never lost his competitive drive. John also channeled his competitiveness into his education. In junior high school he proudly proclaimed that he wanted to go to medical school and be a doctor. This decision followed on the heels of a science project he did involving cellular biology. At Fairfax High School John geared his education towards the medical field, earning an academic letter all four years while also continuing his competitive drive by earning his varsity letters in football and basketball. He took great pride in wearing a Fairfax Rebels jersey.

John pushed himself to be the best while also taking the time to think of those around him. Whether he was mowing neighbors’ lawns, shoveling snow, or just stopping by to say hi and have a chat with someone, John always thought of others. He took special pride in teaching and guiding his little brother. He helped him with his school work and encouraged him to get stronger thru weight lifting, always there to help. He encouraged and practiced his faith and the tradition of family. From ensuring that the family recites the Lord’s Prayer on holidays, to the simple family tradition of spending time together watching the Ten Commandments at Easter or the Sound of Music at Christmas, baking Christmas cookies or decorating Easter eggs together. And we can’t forget our family competitive pumpkin carving! Family holiday traditions and honoring our faith were very important to John.

Following John’s graduation from Fairfax High School he started the next chapter of his life. He set his sights on his chosen major at Virginia Tech, Biology with a minor in Biomedical Research. He wanted to do something that would improve the lives of others. He excelled in his studies and was very proud of his consistent Dean’s List accomplishments. John’s other love at Virginia Tech was being a member of Pi Kappa Phi. He spread his brightness throughout his fraternity and cared deeply for his brothers and their philanthropic efforts.

Anyone who was fortunate enough to meet John knew he would always be there for them and would do anything he could to help them. Unfortunately for his family and those who knew him, he was called away too soon, never being able to fulfill his mission in life. John now rests in the hands of God where he will continue to share his love and compassion for others.

John is survived by his mother and father, Connie and Jay, sister and brother, Alexis and Connor, grandmother Hertha Schock, and cousins, Katie, Kyle, Rhiannon, and Arron, and, many, many friends.

The family will receive friends on Friday, September 9, 2022, 7PM to 9PM at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 8304 Old Keene Mill Road. Springfield VA 22152. Everyone is welcome to attend the service Saturday, September 10, 2022, 10:30am, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, followed by a 1230PM graveside service at Fairfax Memorial Park Cemetery, 9900 Braddock Road, Fairfax VA, 22032.

The family invites all who wish to attend to a luncheon at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church immediately following the graveside service.