John "Johnnie" James McBride

It is with great sadness that the family of John James McBride shares the news of his passing, on June 2nd, 2023, following a prolonged struggle with post-stroke effects and conditions. During that time, he was cared for with optimism, love and gentle humor by his family and friends, and the wonderful nurses and support team at The Springs at Lake Pointe Woods, who were ultimately supported by the kind and devoted staff from Tidewell Hospice. A Memorial and Celebration of John’s life will be held at Robert Toale & Sons at Memorial Park, 170 Honore Avenue, Sarasota, Florida, on Saturday, June 10th at 11:00AM. He is survived by his wife, Nike, daughter Demetra, and beloved nephews and their children.

John often referred to the “lightning bolt” that struck when he first saw Nike Pappas, who would go on to become his vibrant and loving wife for 67 years, and share their daughter, Demetra and son, John Thomas, with him. He also endured the illness and early death of his son at 29 who, Nike and Demetra are certain, has creatively and humorously welcomed his Father in an extraordinary place that eventually welcomes us all.

John was born January 8 ,1936 in Glenham, NY, joined the Marine Corps at age 17, and then went on to develop an inventive career of public service as a supervising mechanic and design technician for Fire Departments at the City of Miami – where he improved the design and performance of the City’s Firebird High-Rise Emergency Truck and the adapted Fire-Boat. He later retired from the City of Coral Gables. In true “Big-Fat-Greek-Wedding” tradition, John converted to Greek Orthodoxy before his wedding at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Church in Miami and remained a man of deep faith until the end.

John and Nike bought their first residence in Sarasota in 1999 and relocated here permanently in 2003. John loved travel, the ocean, marine biology, the endless potential of and fascination with space exploration, blues music and opera and – always – animals of every variety. Above all, he cherished his family and friends. He was a devoted Husband, loving and thoughtful Father, a honest and decent Man, everyone's favorite Neighbor, and a Lover and Whisperer of animals. Nike and Demetra are certain there is bliss and wonder after this life. And we hope there is the beauty and adventure he deserves, our sweet and timeless Husband and Father.