In Loving Memory of John Russell Thibodeau

John Russell Thibodeau, age 62, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on January 5, 2026. He will be remembered for his infectious laugh, wonderful sense of humor, and his deep love for his son and family. John's endless curiosity for new adventures and his passion for music brought joy to those around him. One cherished memory is the last time the family gathered: John played guitar alongside his brother Mark, while his sister Lynne and father Charles joined in with other instruments. The room was filled with laughter and love, and their mother watched on, shaking her head in fond amusement. John's son, Charlie, recalls their meaningful trip together to Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, Canada, where they explored their Thibodeau family roots dating back to the 1600s.

John was born on November 24, 1963, in Bad Constadt, Germany, to Charles and Marilyn Thibodeau. He was known for his spontaneity, kindness, love of music, and enthusiasm for riding his Indian motorcycles. John attended Aberdeen Senior High School in Aberdeen, Maryland, and graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park, with a Bachelor of Science in Cartography.

John was preceded in death by his mother, Marilyn Russell Thibodeau. He is survived by his father, Charles Thibodeau; his son, Charlie Thibodeau; his sister, Lynne Thibodeau Comly (William); and his brother, Mark Thibodeau (Jamie). John was also cherished by his nieces Kathryn Henwood (Lexie), Elizabeth Spina (Danton), Lauren Waitkus (Robbie), and Katharine Thibodeau; nephews Jack Thibodeau, Mason Thibodeau, Bill Comly Jr. (Kelly), James Comly, and Chris Comly (Megan); grandnieces Mia, Eleanor, Haley, and Henley; and grandnephews Leander, Logan, and Caden.

After college, John was commissioned into the U.S. Army and began his career as an Army fixed-wing and helicopter (Cobra-IP) aviator, serving in the Military Intelligence Branch. His distinguished service included flying missions along the DMZ in Korea, serving during the Persian Gulf War, and serving at numerous other duty stations. John was honored with several awards, including the Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Parachutist Badge, Army Achievement Medal, Army Aviator Badge, and Path Finder Badge. He held the rank of Captain upon leaving military service.

Following his military service, John became a commercial airline pilot. His career included serving as captain for ASA (Delta Airlines), World Airways, and FedEx.

A memorial service with full military honors will be held on February 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, located at 5525 U.S. Highway 1, North Mims, Florida 32754.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in John's memory to the Disabled American Veterans Association (DAV): https://support.dav.org/campaigns/John-Russell-Thibodeau