John Joseph Roddy III

He attended St. Anthony’s Seminary, where he was known for his instinct on the football field, his sports editorials published in the school newspaper, good-natured pranks, a fierce sense of justice, and his warm and joyful smile.

John attended Arizona State University, majoring in History and Education. He was a part of Arizona State Sun Devils Division I football team as the center, and played on the baseball team as their catcher.

John was a history teacher and wrestling coach at the Phoenix Indian School, until he joined the United States Marine Corps. John was a Marine Corps Fighter Pilot; flying the F-4, F14, F18, and EA6B. John went through Fighter Weapons school and was awarded Top Gun. John was a Top Gun Instructor at Miramar. John’s callsign was Friar, acknowledging his time in the seminary, and his work with the military. He was a part of the Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232, the Red Devils, with his time spent on the USS Nimitz, USS Midway, USS Carl Vinson, and USS Kitty Hawk aircraft carriers. John was remembered for his jokes, his quick wit and his fierce focus.

At the conclusion of his military service, John became a history teacher for many years; retiring from education after twenty years teaching in the Carlsbad Unified School District. John loved traveling the world, visiting historical places, debating history and religion, and reading every sign in each and every museum exhibit.

Of all the great things that he accomplished in his life, John was most proud of his time spent with his family, and his travels and great adventures with his wife, Shirley Roddy.

John died on May 4, 2026 in Richmond, Virginia.

There will be a Rosary on May 19 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of St. Edward the Confessor, 2700 Dolfield Rd. The Funeral Mass will be held on May 19 at noon at St. Edward the Confessor, with military honors at the conclusion of the Mass.

The Farmer family welcomes visitors to their home for lunch after the funeral mass.