John Edward McEndree

John’s parents William and Lorraine McEndree, and his sister Linda, welcomed John into the family in San Francisco, California in the late 1940’s. In the 1950s, the family moved to Phoenix Arizona, to start a business and settled the family into a new home. However, when John was five years old, the family lost his father William. Lorraine worked very hard to be the breadwinner as a single mother to provide for her young family.

As a young man, John served in the Navy for 4 years during the Vietnam War, learning several skills including radio frequencies and electrical, and earning his GED.

After returning home John continued his education at Glendale Community College, then continuing his education receiving his masters at ASU.

John worked for the Paradise Valley School District as a teacher for over 31 years teaching English, Reading, coaching sports, teaching summer school, was head of the Student Council, among many extra-curricular activities. John genuinely cared about his Students’ education. He continued his education while working, he completed his Administrative Principalship and 60 more credit hours.

John helped his mother Lorraine often when needed including projects at her home and made sure she was well cared for in her senior years. John was a loving brother to his sister Linda and her family, his nephew and niece.

John met his wife Jeanine in 1969, after returning home from the Navy. They fell in love and were married for over 51 years. They were true soulmates and best friends. John and Jeanine had three beautiful girls, Jennifer, Julia and Jeanette whom John loved so much and was always there with insight and advice. He was a wonderful provider and protector for his family.

John and Jeanine were also blessed with three grandchildren, Autumn and Collin and Jayden, who brought John so much joy.

John loved music. He would play the guitar and sing. He loved to watch football and play golf. He would take his daughters golfing and golf with his friends. He was a great handyman, and gardener around the house and left behind a yard full of beautiful flowers.

We will remember him whistling around the home and we will miss his sense of humor. He will be missed and be remembered with love in our hearts.