John Leonard Muuss

John moved to this area in 2000 and made his mark as a photographer, using his skills in his professional business as well as in his pro bono work for many organizations.

As a charter member in the forming of American Legion Post 543, he served several years as the Chapter’s Public Relations Officer and Historian. John also became the Town of St. James Photographic Historian, as well as Photographic Editor for St. James Cat-Tales Magazine, contributing covers and feature photographs too numerous to count over 22 years until retiring from the publication in July 2022. Many Military families had their vacation memories at St. James through Operation at Ease recorded for them by John. Outside of St. James, he contributed to the State Port Pilot on occasion, worked with Real Estate companies highlighting their properties, and so much more.

John’s passion for photography started in his teens and fluctuated from the forefront of his employment to a secondary aspect, but never far behind, during his life. During his army service, his skills were recognized through aerial photography assignments and work with the American Military newspaper Stars and Stripes. Returning home he had various jobs while waiting to hear from the New York City Police Department. In 1966 he joined the NYPD and was promoted to Detective in 1970. He assignments during these years included the Tactical Patrol Force, Narcotics Division, Organized Crime Control Bureau, and Precinct Detective Squads until his retirement in 1978. Leaving the city behind, John’s next move was to Long Island, NY working for the Town of Islip in Suffolk County as Director of Public Safety and Emergency Management until his retirement and move to North Carolina.

John’s story cannot be told without mentioning his beloved dog, Quigley, whose unwavering loyalty and playful spirit brought joy to every chapter of his life.

John’s friends will tell you of the captivating stories he had about his remarkable life, all true, and probably to a person, would describe him as “larger than life.” In John’s words from an article about him that appeared in the State Port Pilot in 2019, “I like helping people, he stated. God was good to me.”

John is survived by his children John, Diana, Kim, and Bobby, and grandchildren Cory, Patrick, Riley, Jack, Camryn, Blayklee, and Ryland. He was preceded in death by son Lance.

Please join his family at 10:00 am on January 30 for refreshments, and to share remembrances of John at Peacock, Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Services, 1411 N. Howe Street, Southport, NC with the service beginning there at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at Cape Fear Memorial Park, 4693 Southport-Supply Road, Southport, North Carolina, 28461. All are welcome.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com

Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.