John  DeFelice, born on October 6, 1938, left us peacefully, surrounded by his family, on July 27, 2025. He was predeceased by his loving parents, Vincent and Mary DeFelice, and his first wife, Judy Lynne, the mother to John’s three daughters. A
beacon of kindness and integrity, John's presence will be deeply missed.
Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 42 years, Judy DeFelice; and his loving  brother, Joe DeFelice and family.  John was a devoted father to daughters Franca (Jeff) Kennedy, Giora (Tim) Barker, Tia (Jay) Annand, and step-daughter Nikki and a proud father to step-son, Ryan Wellshear. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren  Nicholas, Jack, Natalie and Charlie , Cole, Cade, and Claire , Haley and Jake, and Cooper and Josie.  John also left behind many beloved cousins in the Columbus area, including Bob Renzetti, Stella O’Donnell, Ruth Ann Voit and their families.

John was a proud graduate of Acquinas High School, Columbus, Ohio, Class of 1956, where he lettered in football.
John honorably served in the Navy from 1957 to 1961. His devotion to his country was a testament to his enduring sense of duty and patriotism.  He was a proud member of the Sports Car Club of America in Columbus, where he won many trophies for his driving skills  His favorite car to race was his 1969 Barracuda.

John worked for his father’s Chrysler dealership in Columbus before joining GTE Yellow Pages.  He was transferred to Dallas in 1979, where he developed many friendships with coworkers as well as neighbors in Bedford.  John was transferred with GTE to Redlands, California in 1989 where he and Judy made many friends, often hosting Super Bowl parties in their home. John retired from GTE (Verizon) in 1996 and went to work for UC Riverside  until his retirement in 2007.

John and Judy attended Citizens Church in Redlands and for the past year watched the service live on YouTube.

. A man of simple, yet refined tastes, his favorite meals often included Italian cuisine, paired perfectly with a glass of Chianti, and perhaps a shot of Bourbon. He found enjoyment in reading, particularly works by Stuart Woods. The soothing tunes of Garth Brooks and Jimmy Buffet often filled their home, creating a warm atmosphere for all who visited. A lover of the silver screen, John favored the films Mama Mia, Grand Prix (1966)  and Ford vs Ferrari, and he wouldn't miss an episode of Blue Bloods, Jeopardy, or Wheel of Fortune. His loyalty to the Dallas Cowboys was unmissable, a longtime fan, he relished in each game. John also had a penchant for card games like Golf, Tripoli, Cribbage, and Gin Rummy. His eyes lit up at the opportunity to refurbish classic cars and attend car shows. He especially enjoyed NASCAR, his favorite driver being Jeff Gordon. He loved playing cornhole, cycling, and taking peaceful walks on the beach. His favorite local spots include Domenico’s in Beaumont and il Farro in Newport  Beach. He and Judy loved to travel, often reminiscing on their trips to Italy, Greece, Australia, and Mexico.
John was compassionate and was a steadfast supporter of St. Jude's and Disabled Vets. As a testament to his personality, described as friendly, polite, and always a gentleman, he lived by the Golden Rule. John’s love for life and his family was unwavering. One of his greatest accomplishments was earning the respect of his family, friends, and those who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those he left behind. A Celebration of Life for John will be held on September 6, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Plantation On the Lake. We invite all who knew John to come and share in the commemoration of his wonderful life.

A funeral mass will be held on October 10, 2025, at St. Monica Catholic Church, 9933 Midway Road, Dallas, TX, at 11:00. Reception immediately following. 

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