John Stephen Bias

On Sunday, June 21, we lost our beloved Granddaddy. At 80 years old, John Stephen Bias was reunited with his beloved and late wife, Kathy, our Nana. Though our hearts are heavy with his passing, we rejoice in the countless memories of his love, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his family.

John was born on July 6, 1945, in Los Angeles, California and in 1956 his family settled in Charlottesville, Virginia. He was the son of Dorsey Victory Bias and Imogene Lena Sigmon Bias. He was a brother to James “Jamie” and the late Jerome “Jerry” and survived by his sister-in-laws Barbara and Lorriane. He is survived by his sons Jason Scott and Sean Michael and their wives Amanda Ann Skrabut and Natalie June Bias. John left behind six grandchildren; Tynan Scott, Malena Bailey, Macy Katherine, Faye Eleanor, Levi James, and Juniper Dorsey. John graduated from the University of Virginia with a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering. After college, John was living in Washington, D.C., where he met the love of his life, Katherine Plechey. Together they returned to Charlottesville to build a home and raise a family. Upon returning, John took over the family real estate business that his father had started.

John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose world revolved around his family. He possessed a quiet strength, a warm smile, and a generous heart that made everyone around him feel loved and welcome. He was one of the most proper and polite people you could ever meet, and his intelligence was matched only by his curiosity. He was always asking "why," approaching life with a thoughtful mind, careful attention to detail, and a genuine desire to understand the world around him. He enjoyed nature hikes, a good game of tennis, and later in life developed a passion for pickleball. He also enjoyed discovering new beers with his sons. He especially looked forward to the annual Bias Beach Vacation, where his family gathered to make memories together.

To his grandchildren, he was simply “Granddaddy,” a role that brought him immeasurable joy. He delighted in every visit, milestone, accomplishment, and hug. He never missed an opportunity to attend an activity, sporting event, or school function. In his later years, nothing brought him greater happiness than simply being with his family and being present for the people he adored. His love, kindness, sense of humor, and steadfast presence will remain with us always.

Though we grieve his passing, we celebrate a life well lived and a man who leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue through his children, grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We will miss him dearly, but we take comfort in knowing that Granddaddy and Nana are together once again.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at 10 AM Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Teague Funeral Home in Charlottesville, VA with burial to follow at Monticello Memory Gardens. A reception will be held at Sean and Natalie’s home following the burial Tuesday afternoon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John’s name to The Center at Belvedere—where he volunteered.