It is with full hearts and deep sadness that we announce the passing of John Frederick Bellwood — known to all who loved him as Jack — who passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026. That he left us on Valentine's Day feels especially fitting, as he was, at his core, a true sweetheart.
Jack was born on October 13, 1928, in Brentford End, Isleworth, United Kingdom. In his youth, he made the brave journey to America with friends in search of opportunity and a better life. It was there that he found not only his future, but the love of his life, Marian. Together they built a beautiful marriage that spanned 62 devoted years and was a partnership defined by love, laughter, and dancing.
Jack adored dancing with Marian. At weddings and celebrations, he was often the first on the dance floor, proudly taking her hand. Though time may have slowed his steps in his 90s, it never stopped him completely. The music and his love for his family always carried him forward.
An engineer by profession, Jack devoted much of his life to his work, but nothing meant more to him than family. He was the proud father of two daughters and the adoring Grampy to four granddaughters, each of whom brought immeasurable joy to his life. Summer vacations on Cape Cod created cherished memories filled with laughter, ocean air, and togetherness. Sundays often found him enjoying a well-made martini during cocktail hour at his daughter's home, a simple ritual he treasured.
Jack was especially grateful to live long enough to attend the wedding of his first granddaughter, Olivia, a milestone that filled him with pride. He was proud of all his girls and each accomplishment they achieved.
A kindhearted soul and always a gentleman, Jack treated everyone with warmth and respect. He also held a special place in his heart for his great grandoggie, Togo, who will surely miss the bits of cheese slipped under the table by Grampy.
Jack leaves behind his loving wife, Marian Bellwood, his beloved daughters and their husbands, Christine and Jim Hess, and Jackie and Steve Cassely; his treasured grandchildren, both biological and acquired: Olivia & Alon, Paige & Marcus, Claire, and Charlotte; and his sister and brother-in-law, Jill and Peter Waygood, and their family in England. His legacy of love, devotion, and quiet strength lives on in all of them.
He taught us how to love deeply, show up consistently, dance when the music plays, and always make room at the table, sometimes with a little extra cheese.
He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at a later date. Donations in his memory may be made to
St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital or to The Framingham Heart Study, two organizations dear to his heart.