John William Blaylock

John William Blaylock, 78, went to be with his Savior on December 19, 2025, after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer.

John was born on April 10, 1947, in Miami, Florida, to Esther and John Blaylock. From an early age, he possessed a deep curiosity about the world that shaped the course of his life. His life was rich with adventure - piloting small planes in the Florida Keys, ocean freediving, shooting BB guns as a child in Washington, operating construction equipment in New York, and several cross-country road trips in a VW Beetle. In all of his pursuits, John sought knowledge wherever it could be found, believing that learning was one of life’s greatest joys.

After graduating from Marathon High School, John moved to Tallahassee where he earned a degree in mathematics at Florida State University. This is where he met the love of his life, and wife of 56 years, Mary Newsome. After graduating, John worked in the university’s state-of-the-art computing center, laying the foundation for a career defined by intellect and dedication.

In 1979, John accepted a position at Los Alamos National Laboratory as a computer scientist in the Thermonuclear Design group, TD-2. After a fulfilling 27 years at LANL, John retired in 2006 as group leader for the Data Storage Systems group (CIC-11). He was respected for his sharp mind, unique perspectives, and commitment to excellence.

In 1984, John and Mary welcomed their son, Joe - the light of John’s life. John delighted in teaching Joe about science, music, computers, engineering, and the joy of asking questions. He took great pride in watching Joe grow into the man he is today - a testament to John’s love and support.

John was a devoted member of the Los Alamos Christian Church, where his generous heart and welcoming nature touched countless lives. He never knew a stranger and had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel seen and valued. Whether discussing history, mathematics, or the life story of someone he met on a walk, John found wonder in people and ideas alike.

In his later years, John found joy in time spent with his grandsons, Jackson and Jase, who lovingly called him “BomBom.” His patience, humor, and warmth made him a cherished presence in their lives.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Esther Blaylock, and his older sister, Carol. He is survived by his beloved wife Mary; his son Joe (Shannon); his brother Joe (Teresa); his sister Janet; his grandsons Jackson and Jase; and a wide circle of extended family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in John’s honor to organizations that reflected his values and compassion: the Los Alamos Christian Church, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, Easterseals, or the Alzheimer’s Association.

A celebration of John’s life will be held on January 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Christian Church of Los Alamos. A potluck-style gathering will follow, and all are welcome. In honor of John, those who own kilts are invited to wear them.

John William Blaylock lived a life defined by curiosity, generosity, faith, and love. His legacy endures in the many lives he touched and the countless stories, lessons, and moments of wonder he shared so freely.