John Mardis

MARDIS, John David

On August 10, 2025, the Band of Saints welcomed their newest first-chair trombone player, John David Mardis.

Born August 14, 1946, to John Turner Mardis and Virginia Staton Mardis in Campbellsville, Kentucky, John's life was set to a melody of service, scholarship, and song. A 1964 graduate of Campbellsville High School, he was named All-State in both chorus and band—a fitting prelude to a lifelong devotion to music.

He earned his degree in music from Western Kentucky University in 1968 and went on to complete advanced degrees from Georgia State University and the University of Georgia. Between the notes of his academic pursuits, John answered a different call—serving his country as a member of the U.S. Army, including a tour in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Bronze Star.

In 1970, John moved to Georgia and began a decades-long encore as an educator, starting as band director at Norcross High School before becoming a distinguished administrator in the Gwinnett County Public School System. His leadership and encouragement shaped the lives of students at Norcross, Buford, Berkmar, Central Gwinnett, and North Gwinnett High Schools.

Beyond the classroom, John remained active in political and civic affairs, always ready to lend his voice to causes that mattered. His life's score was rich with varied movements—marches for justice, ballads of family love, and spirited fanfares for his beloved Braves, the beauty of nature, and the thrill of horse racing.

John is survived by his wife of 15 years, Joy Rikard Brown; his son, David Mardis (Sean Young); his daughter, Janie Mardis (Brian Marczak); and his cherished grandson, Paxton Marczak. He is also survived by his sister, Netha Bennett (Dave); his stepson, Jonathan Rikard Brown (Katy Hinman); nieces Stephanie Watson and Libby Bell; and great-nieces and nephews who will carry forward his melody.

From his first high school concert to his final standing ovation, John's life was a composition of passion, dedication, and harmony. His music—and the love behind it—will resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Music in the Park Atlanta at www.musicintheparkatl.org