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John Douglas Redding, age 81, of Ocala, Florida passed away on January 4, 2024 surrounded by family. He was born on September 19, 1942 in St. Louis, Missouri to the late John Henry and Elsie (Valentine) Redding. John was Catholic by faith.
The family moved to Florida where John grew up on St. Pete Beach. He and Margie Terry-Holmes met at Boca Ciega High School, began dating, and married following graduation. John was in the United States Navy for six years serving on two submarines based in Key West, Chopper 342 and Threadfin 410.
After an Honorable Discharge, the family lived in St. Petersburg, FL; Palos Verdes, CA; and Phoenix, AZ. John’s company, Redding & Associates specialized in advertising, marketing and public relations for hi-tech/military companies. Following retirement he volunteered at the Arizona Humane Society as a docent which fostered his love for animals, especially dogs.
John and Margie moved to Ocala, FL in 2023. John enjoyed time in his yard, tending to his plants and flowers bringing much joy as his yard bloomed.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Margie; daughters and sons-in-law, Kim (Mike) Savage and Kerry (Mike) Shumway; sister, Joan Romero and five grandchildren, Steven and Jonathan Savage and Megan, Trevor and Matthew Shumway.
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Sadly, we received word that classmate John Redding passed away January 4, 2024. John had been under hospice care with COPD and pneumonia. Margie Holmes Redding, also our classmate as well as John's wife of more than 60 years, may be reached at:
11653 Southwest 72nd Circle
Ocala, Florida 34476
Phone: (480) 204-8191, Email: mreddingaz@gmail.com
Expressions of sympathy may also be posted as comments to John's page on the In Memory section of our class website.
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Steve Smietana
John joined the Navy as a Submariner and was a valued member of the Silent Service serving his country. John and Margie along with their family sacrificed precious "together" time in support of his career. The following is offered as a tribute to that service.
"This sailor has stood the watch while some of us were in our bunks at night. This sailor stood the watch while some of us were in school learning our trade. This shipmate stood the watch during those years when the storm clouds of war were seen brewing on the horizon of history. Many times he would cast an eye ashore and see his family standing there needing his guidance and help needing that hand to hold during those hard times, but he still stood the watch. He stood the watch for years so that we, our families, and our fellow countrymen could sleep soundly in safety each and every night knowing that this sailor was standing the watch. Today we are here to say ''Shipmate... the watch stands relieved! Relieved by those You have trained, guided, and Led. We have the watch!"
Rest in Peace Shipmate!
Steve Smietana/Captain, USN, Retired
(author unknown)
Mada Kay Morehead
Margie and family,
Condolences and heartfelt sympathy. A life well lived. I know you will miss him so very much. Mada Kay Morehead
Elaine Esielionis (Francis)
Steve...A lovely tribute....as I Navy wife myself, I'm sure John's wife appreciated your thoughtfulness.
Gail Danzig (Fore)
As John echos in mind, I think ever-present smile, visisble from a quiet and loving soul. What a treasure.
How amazing to find each other and be together for more than 60 years. What a life you both created. Margie, please take in all the love coming your way as you grieve and cherish your memories. You are not alone. Love, Gail
James Lobianco (Lobianco)
Just to say John was a great guy doesn't put a dent in the kind caring person he was. During High school John Redding became John and Margie .when we reconnected many years later I was pleases but not surprised to learn that it was still John and Margie. After spending a short time with them last year, the caring and support I saw freom each said it all. John will be greatly missed.
Thomas Twitty
I, too, was a Sailor in the Vietnam War, so we had a lot in common. Linda and I had our 1st child, Mike who was less than a year old when we were called up.
Back in the early 70s, after my return from the war, I started an advertising business named Ink & Ideas. John stopped by to discuss his client account, "Imperial Movers," and we worked together to produce the company Brochure. We used our family's new Delprado Home with models Linda and our kids Mike and Marnie and our golden retriever named "Goldie", of course. It was a great success for John's customers, but we lost touch in the following years when he left the state. I was happy he returned shortly after our 60th reunion and resettled in nearby Ocala.
Hugh McPherson
So very sorry to hear of John's passing. Spent a little time with him when he and Margie were looking for a house in Ocala. Introduced them to some of our friends and a realtor who helped find them a house. Thank you for your service John and may you rest in peace.
Troy Nicks
Fair winds and following seas, Shipmate....
Kathleen Reed (Porter)
I am so very sorry to hear about John. We were in home room for 3 years at Bogie. John was always happy, warm, friendly, funny and ready to enjoy life. What a treasure! We were honored to have him with us.
I am so sorry Margie.
Kathy Reed Porter
John Charles "Jack" Withrow
What a sweet gentle man, we got to be good buddies the last several years. I will miss him terribly. Rest in peace my dear friend.
Margie, you were with a Prince of a guy, he was the best!. Please stay in touch with Janet and me. And remember to visit this summer!!!
Jack