John Thomas Paradysz

John Thomas Paradysz, a man whose greatest joy was found in his faith, his family, and his country, passed away peacefully at his home in Spring Branch, Texas, on Thursday, October 23, 2025. He was 68 years old. Born on October 5, 1957, John was the beloved son of the late Thelma Jean Paradysz. He instilled in himself his values and morals by becoming a devoted Christian, a true patriot, and the patriarch of a loving family.
He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Houston. John spent his long and successful professional career in dedicated service. He proudly worked many years at the Houston Chronicle and retired this past July after eighteen years of service with the Troutman, Pepper, Locke Law firm. While his work was important, his true passion lay in his home life and his mission to serve others.
John was a man who worked hard to create a beautiful life for his family. He loved working in the yard, creating a sanctuary at home alongside his beloved wife, Martha "Mar" Paradysz. A devoted Christian, he maintained a daily ritual of Bible study and scripture reading. He was deeply involved in his home church, Strawbridge United Methodist Church, where he taught Sunday school for many years and was a member of numerous bible studies. His heart for service extended far beyond his church walls. He participated in mission work in El Salvador, supported charities like Meals on Wheels and Tunnels to Towers, and often performed quiet, anonymous acts of kindness, such as buying groceries for random strangers when he felt led to do so.
Above all, John was a huge family man. While he cherished the quiet moments working on puzzles, watching football and baseball, his greatest passion was being the ultimate fan for his grandchildren. Whether it was at sports games, dance recitals, or school events, their joy was truly his joy. He was also well-known for his playful spirit, always ready with a joke or a prank for his loved ones.
John's legacy will be carried on by his devoted wife of 47 years, Martha Paradysz. He is survived by his loving children: John Paradysz and his wife, Courtney, Steven Paradysz and his wife, Crystal, Katie Zientek and her husband, Michael. He was the proud and loving "Paw Paw" to six cherished grandchildren: Madison Paradysz, Jack Paradysz, Jillian Paradysz, Logan Zientek, Drake Paradysz, and Samuel Zientek. He is also survived by his sister, Cindy Grimes, and his sister-in-law, Kathy Grimland and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
A memorial service to celebrate John's life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Sunset Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, New Braunfels, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor John's spirit of generosity by performing a random act of kindness for a stranger, or by donating to one of his favorite charities, Meals on Wheels or Tunnels to Towers.