Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
John Rowan Obituary
John Patrick Rowan, 86, passed away peacefully at his home on April 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on January 12, 1939, in Kildangan, County Kildare, Ireland, John lived for many years in a beautiful home in Mayfield, Monasterevin, with his family before relocating to Jacksonville, Florida, in 1988, where he remained ever since.
John dedicated his life to working with heavy machinery and land clearing, both in Ireland and the U.S., proudly working alongside his son, John Jr. He was an avid runner and a passionate Gaelic footballer, proudly playing for Ballykelly, his local club in Ireland. He also enjoyed golfing in both Cil Dara and Jacksonville, winning many a tournament throughout his years. In more recent years, you would find him fishing at the pier or walking the mall for his exercise. John was well known for his love of music, his beautiful singing voice, and the joy he brought to Sunday gatherings at the pub with friends.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Margaret; his sons, Michael (Lorraine) and Fintan (Tasha); his daughters, Suzanne (Lucio), Geraldine (Rodney), and Linda (Casey); and his cherished grandchildren: Alycia (Patrick), Robert, Sean, Ethan, Alannah, Saoirse, Kyle, Conleth, Tadhg, Finlay, Dara, Loughlan, and Ronan. He is also survived by his sister, Bridie. John was predeceased by his son, John Jr.
A Visitation will be held at Quinn-Shalz Family Funeral Home on April 14, 2025, from 5–7 p.m. 3600 Third Street South, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Spirit Catholic Church on April 15, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. 11665 Fort Caroline Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225
Burial will follow at Our Lady of Hope Cemetery 960 Girvin Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Project: Cold Case in honor of John Rowan Sr. This organization has provided unwavering support to our family as we continue to seek answers in the disappearance of our beloved John Rowan Jr., who went missing from Jacksonville, Florida, on February 23, 2001. Their advocacy for families of the missing and murdered has been a source of strength and hope.
Memories and Condolences
for John Rowan
Tell your own story about John
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
How you can show support
3600 Third Street South, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Make a Donation
in John Rowan's name
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor John Rowan's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
