John was born on January 12th, 1951 and was raised by mother Juanita Ruth and adoptive father Gilmon Ruth in Plant City, Florida with younger siblings James and Shirley. After growing up in the rural south, he moved north at the age of 18, settling in New York City. While living in a small Brooklyn apartment, he earned his Bachelor's Degree at Saint John's University in Queens. From there he went on to attend New York Institute of Technology where he was awarded an MBA.
He was happiest when working--for his family; for his children; for the hospitals and health care facilities and associations that required his particular brand of leadership; for his students. John enjoyed volunteering with Loaves and Fishes to feed the needy, and working as pitmaster at his backyard barbecue and smoker to feed friends and family. He lived his life in the service of others, forever trying to make things better. With his wife, Amy, John worked to build a happy and fulfilled life that took them from New York to Chicago, back to New York, and ultimately to Las Vegas, Nevada.
John was predeceased by his sister, Shirley and his dog, Max; and is survived by his wife, Amy; mother, Juanita; brother, James; daughter, Sarah; and step-children David, Laura, and Daniel Elliott.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you keep John in mind when donating to your favorite charitable organization.
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