John R. DeArmond Sr., born on February 26, 1946, in Kansas City, Kansas, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of January 5, 2026.

John lived his life much like he played the game he loved—showing up every day, giving his best effort, and valuing the people beside him. He was a proud United States Navy veteran, serving his country from September 8, 1964, to September 7, 1970. During his service, John traveled around the world, an experience he carried with pride for the rest of his life.

Shortly after his military service, John joined the United States Postal Service, where he worked as a letter carrier. He took pride in his route, his dependability, and the relationships he built along the way, remaining with the USPS until his retirement. Even years after retiring, people from his routes still remembered John—not just as their mail carrier, but as someone who took the time to know them and care about their day.

A lifelong athlete at heart, John played softball for most of his life, continuing well into his early 70s. The softball field was where friendships were formed, competition thrived, and countless memories were made. When he wasn’t on the field, John could often be found around the pool table every Wednesday, enjoying good games, laughter, and camaraderie with his buddies—a tradition he truly cherished.

John was a devoted father and a proud grandfather whose greatest victories came from his family. He is survived by his daughters Jolene Moten, Jennifer Moppin, and Victoria Salais (Socorro); his brother James DeArmond Jr.; and his sister Debbie Richards; former spouse Mary DeArmond. He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, with two more great-grandchildren on the way, a legacy that continues to grow.

John was preceded in death by his parents, James Arthur DeArmond Sr. and Anna P. DeArmond; his sibling Nancy Edwards; his son John Robert DeArmond Jr.; and his former wife, Kathy Bright.

John will be remembered as a teammate, a veteran, a postal carrier, and a man who understood the value of loyalty, consistency, and showing up for others. Though he has stepped off the field, his legacy and spirit live on in the lives he touched.