John Wylie Meredith

John Wylie Meredith (aka ‘Papa John’), 81, a man whose presence lit up every room, unexpectedly passed away in his home on Friday, July 18, 2025. John lived a life overflowing with joy, purpose, and an infectious charisma that endeared him to all. His humor, unwavering spirit, zest for life and profound impact on those around him will be forever cherished.

Born in Lexington, Kentucky, in 1943 to Kathleen (Kay) Wylie and Harold Meredith, John’s remarkable journey took him to The Ohio State University. There, he met Anita (née Brinkman) Meredith, and they shared 27 years of marriage. After earning his bachelor’s from OSU, he expanded his education by earning an MBA at Bowling Green State University.

John's professional life was as dynamic as his personality. His innate talent for business quickly propelled him through the corporate ranks. In 1978, he began his tenure at the Armour-Dial as Director of Accounting, swiftly advancing to Vice President of Accounting in 1979. Later in his career, he became Vice President of Accounting at Greyhound Bus Lines (a related subsidiary), before taking on the pivotal role of Vice President of Planning and Acquisitions for the Greyhound Corporation. In this capacity, he skillfully acquired and reorganized numerous companies, significantly contributing to Greyhound’s expansion. John did not stop there; his next step was Vice President, CFO, and CAO for Dial Consumer Products’ (formerly Greyhound/Armour Corporation) International Division, where he was responsible for expanding the international business arms for Dial Soap and other consumer products. Even after a long and distinguished corporate career, John continued to share his vast knowledge and experience. Later in life, he transitioned to a second career in academia as a Professor and College of Business Chair at Johnson & Wales University in Colorado, where he taught various classes in business development and economics, inspiring countless students with insights.

Beyond his professional achievements, John’s greatest joy was spending time with his two daughters and grandchildren, Connor Donald Egan, 18, and Meredith Addison Egan, 16. A recent source of immense pride was learning that his grandson would be carrying on the family legacy by attending The Ohio State University in the Fall of 2025. John’s free time was often spent golfing, a pastime he often enjoyed several times a week during the golf season. He savored moments of connection, relaxing on his patio with friends, a whiskey, and a cigar, sharing stories and laughter. He enjoyed traveling extensively with a good friend, visiting such destinations as the Pacific Coast Highway, Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica, Coeur d'Alene, Iceland, and Newfoundland. He recently purchased a small condo next to a golf course in Scottsdale, where he reconnected with many of his lifelong friends. He knew how to live life to the fullest and spent winters there and summers still in Colorado.

John approached every aspect of his life with remarkable ease and grace, even in the face of recent health challenges. His mantra was often quoted as ‘my biggest worry in the world was whether the tide was going to reach my chair.’ Diagnosed with skin cancer earlier this year, he was undergoing treatment and faced it with his characteristic perseverance and optimism. He will be remembered for his vibrant spirit, his remarkable ability to connect with anyone he met, and his humor, which was a trademark of his personality and how he often expressed his love. He had a knack for perfectly delivered jokes, and his favorite quote, from Nietzsche, was: "And we should consider every day lost on which we have not danced at least once," and "And we should call every truth false which was not accompanied by at least one laugh."

John is survived by his two loving daughters, Angela Meredith Egan and Amanda Louise Meredith, son-in-law, Matthew Chaddock Egan, ex-wife Anita (née Brinkman) Meredith, his grandson Connor, and granddaughter Meredith, who will forever cherish his memory and the incredible legacy he leaves behind. His charisma, wisdom, and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rest in peace. You are deeply, profoundly loved.