John Joseph Walsh

John Joseph Walsh, 77, of Jacksonville, FL, passed away on March 22, 2024 following a heroic battle with heart disease. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 54 years, Kathy; children, Jennifer Harwell (John), Mary Neldner (Brian) and Beth Davis (Terry); 6 grandchildren, Ashlyn, Lacey, Dylan, Dior, Brady and Audrey; sister, Dot Smith Hughes and several nieces and nephews.

John was born in Jersey City, NJ in 1947 to John J Walsh Sr and Mary C Walsh (Smith). John was predeceased by his parents, stepfather Hawley Smith; brothers, Duane and David Smith and nephew; Carl Matyi.

After graduating from Forest High School, he went on to graduate from the University of North Florida. He spent many years in automotive accounting including North Florida Lincoln Mercury and 20 years with Tom Bush Family of Dealerships as the Chief Financial Officer. He was also a mentor and teacher. After retiring from accounting, he taught at Safe Harbor Boys Home for 10 years.

John not only enjoyed teaching, but prided himself on being a lifetime student and always enjoyed learning new things. Throughout his life, he continuously achieved every goal he set for himself. He was an avid sports fan and had many interests including his love of jogging, music, drumming and bible prophecy. He also loved refereeing basketball and was a certified FHSAA official and served with the Southern Association of Basketball Officials (SABO) for 27 years until the age of 70. John was a man of great faith and served his church in many leadership capacities over the years.

John was a Godly man, faithful husband, devoted father and grandfather who loved and provided for his family. He was a man of great integrity and led by example. He had many wonderful and admirable qualities and will be remembered as a kind, sweet, humble and funny guy. He was one of a kind and there will never be another like him. He will be deeply missed and remembered always.

A celebration of John's life will be held on April 20, 2024 at the River Church Jacksonville, 1820 Monument Road. The family will begin receiving visitors at 11am. The service will begin at 12pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Operation Christmas Child - John Walsh Memorial Fund through The River Church, a ministry close to John’s heart.