John H. Moreno

This quote was one of many “Thoughts for the Day” that John would email each morning to his wife and daughters before they began their day. It was meant to be a daily reminder of his presence and his unwavering support for his family.

In later years, the “Thought for the Day” evolved into the “Daily Briefing,” which he wrote each morning while watching the sun rise. These messages were filled with loving words, reflections on his grandchildren’s accomplishments, and other musings. Through them, John’s voice and presence remained a steadfast part of each day.

John, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. He lived a life defined by compassion, service to others, and a deep belief, formed in his youth, that most problems could be improved by a day at the beach.

An avid surfer who first discovered his love for the waves along the shores of New Jersey in the 1960s, John carried that passion throughout his life. The beach was his sanctuary; the water embodied peace. He loved swimming, surfing, listening to the Beach Boys, and simply feeling the warmth of the sun on his face. “Just put your face in the sun,” he would remark after hearing about his daughter’s daily challenges, a simple reminder that not everything needed to be that serious.

John attended St. Peter’s Preparatory School and later Villanova University, where he ultimately earned his master’s degree. He dedicated 34 years of his professional life as a manager with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS), working tirelessly to help individuals with physical and emotional disabilities gain meaningful employment. Helping others was not just his profession. It was his purpose.

John shared nearly 49 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Vicki. Vicki also devoted 34 years of service to the Superior Court of New Jersey, ultimately serving as Assistant Chief. In 2006, John and Vicki retired to Palm Coast, Florida, where they built a life filled with sunshine, community, and friendship. John became deeply involved in neighborhood life, proudly serving as President of the homeowners’ association and contributing to numerous community committees. He often referred to living in Matanzas Shores as “living in paradise.”

John was immensely proud of his daughters and inspired them through both his actions and encouragement. His love of swimming and the ocean was passed down to both. His daughter Emily earned a full swimming scholarship to Boston University and followed in his footsteps of service by becoming a special education teacher. His older daughter, Elizabeth, graduated from Smith College and Seton Hall Law School and now works as a health care attorney, advocating for health care reform and quality medical care.

He is also survived by his sister, Mary Ellen Moreno of Ormond Beach, who built a meaningful career helping and advocating for others as a case manager and through her work in the public schools.

One of John’s greatest joys was being “Poppi” to his beloved grandchildren, Izzy and Owen. He treasured every moment spent with them at the beach and pool, sharing laughter, stories, and his lifelong love of the water. When they visited, Poppi was often found cheering Owen on as he swam laps, and each morning sat with Izzy as she ate her cereal while watching the sun rise.

John will be remembered for his warm heart, quiet strength, generosity of spirit, and deep devotion to family and community. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and in the enduring love of those who knew him.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at a future date for family and close friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in John’s memory to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) to support ongoing research and hope for those affected by the disease. Simply click on the “Donate” link in the top right of the page and follow the prompts. Their website can be found here: The MMRF | Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. https://themmrf.org