John James Zacharias Sr.

Born in Saint Clair, Michigan, in 1938, he was one of eleven children. John often spoke about living on a farm and loving his life with his parents and siblings, and he remained close to them throughout their lives. While attending Saint Clair High School, he ran track, and after graduation, he joined the United States Marine Corps. After honorably serving as a Marine, he sailed as a merchant seaman on the Great Lakes.

After moving to Florida, John met the love of his life, Ruth, and they were married on August 8, 1964. He attended the University of Florida and graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Afterwards, he had a long, successful career in telecommunications. After living in Florida, North Carolina, and Roanoke, VA, the family settled in North Chesterfield, VA, where he lived in his home for over 45 years.

John was a devoted husband and dedicated father to his children. He never missed an opportunity to spend time with them. He helped his children with homework and attended any events in which his children participated. John was selfless and sacrificed for his family. He loved his children and grandchildren, and it showed by the amazing smile he had whenever he saw them.

John loved the outdoors and staying active. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, running, tennis, and playing various sports with his children. He also became an avid golfer and worked at the Country Club of Virginia after he retired. John also enjoyed reading and learning new things. He enjoyed music, especially Glenn Miller Band, and played the trumpet.

A devout Catholic, John attended Sunday Mass, and daily Mass whenever he was able. He continued to assist serving Mass until he was 80 years old, always remaining a wonderful example to his children, family, and friends in his dedication to the Catholic Faith.

John is survived by his wife of 59 years, Ruth (Colvin) Zacharias and their children John and his wife Uta (von Recum), Michael and his wife Terri (Saintsing), Matthew and his wife Melissa (Deck), Mark and his wife Dominique (Snyder), Christine (Zacharias) and her husband Christopher Dignan; grandchildren: Jamie, Evan, Kira, Trevor, Brandon, Ethen, Stanley, Anthony, Mary Sophia, Thomas, Blaise, Genevieve, Mariana, Joseph, and Brendan; and his sister Lorraine Garvey.

John was preceded in death by four sisters, Sally Prior, Irene Zacharias, Elizabeth Devereaux, and Helen Wrona; and five brothers, Leo, Ralph, Stanley, Richard, and Daniel Zacharias.

The visitation will be Sunday, December 3rd, 2023, from 3-5 pm at Woody Funeral Home, 1020 Huguenot Rd, Midlothian, VA 23113.

A Requiem Mass will be held on Monday, December 4th, 2023, at 10:00 am at Our Lady of Fatima Chapel, 5217 Futura Ave, Richmond, VA 23231. There will be a short reception at the Chapel after the funeral, followed by the graveside burial ceremony at the cemetery at St. Thomas Aquinas Seminary, 1208 Archbishop Lefebvre Avenue, Dillwyn, VA 23936.

Flowers and condolences can be sent to Woody Funeral Home, 1020 Huguenot Rd, Midlothian, VA 23113.