John Pennington Rich Jr.

1932 - 2025

John Pennington Rich, Jr.
September 19, 1932 - August 30, 2025
John Pennington Rich, Jr., age 92, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025, in La Grande, Oregon. A man of deep faith and quiet strength, John lived a life marked by service-to his country, his community, his family, and above all, to God.
Born on September 19, 1932, John grew up in Santa Rosa, his roots running deep in Sonoma County. His family-both the Talbots and the Riches-settled in the region in the mid-1800s and became successful ranchers and respected community leaders. As a boy, John spent many cherished summers on his grandparents' ranch in Boonville, Mendocino County. The memories he made there-exploring the ranch, helping with the sheep, riding horses, working hard, and building family bonds-remained close to his heart throughout his life.
John attended Fremont Elementary, and Santa Rosa High School, before pursuing higher education at the University of the Pacific for both undergraduate and graduate studies. In 1957, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. He served with honor as a lieutenant until 1963 before resigning his commission.
Following his military service, John began a new chapter as an educator. He taught history at Healdsburg Junior High before earning his master's degree and transitioning into a role as school district psychologist for the Healdsburg School District. His dedication to students and staff alike led him to eventually serve as the district's business administrator-a position he held until retirement.
But retirement was only a transition into another form of service. Alongside Joyce, his wife of 63 years, John embarked on missionary work with Youth With A Mission (YWAM), sharing their faith, and serving others wherever the Lord took them. Upon returning home from the mission field, John continued ministering as associate pastor at Sebastopol Assembly of God for several years.
Throughout his life, John was deeply involved in church communities including Christian Life Center, Sebastopol Assembly of God, Healdsburg Community Church, Baker City Nazarene, and New Song Community Church. His faith was not just a belief but a way of life-evident in every act of kindness, every word of counsel offered with insight and compassion.
John was known for many things: his adventurous spirit that led him backpacking through mountains or snowshoeing across winter trails; his love for hunting and hiking; his joy in traveling and exploring new roads; and his quiet evenings spent reading or cooking meals for loved ones. He was faithful yet stubborn when it mattered most; gentle yet strong; nurturing yet wise-a counselor whose listening ear brought comfort to many.
He is lovingly remembered by his daughters: Genevieve Chesky, Shaun Dickison, Linda Cameron, and Becky Foster; sixteen grandchildren; and sixteen great-grandchildren. He now joins in eternal rest with those who went before him: his wife, Joyce Rich, the love of his life; his parents John Pennington Rich Sr. and Sonoma Ayer Rich; and his sister Beverly Rich.
John's legacy is one of steadfast faithfulness-to God's calling on his life and to those he loved so dearly. May we find comfort knowing that he now walks joyfully with the Lord he served so faithfully.
Memorial contributions can be made to Oaks of Hebron.
Come spend time with John's daughters and family at the Alexander Valley Community Hall. Enjoy food, drinks, and memories of John.
Date: Sunday, October 19.
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Location: 5512 CA-128 Geyserville, CA.
Linda: 707-486-8360.