John Edward Brophy

Born on October 6, 1942, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, John was the son of John William Brophy and Bernice Elizabeth (McGrath) Brophy. He was raised in the Bensalem and Andalusia communities of Bucks County, where he developed the faith, work ethic, and compassion that would define his life.

John graduated from Father Judge High School in 1960 before earning a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from La Salle University and later an MBA from Temple University. He dedicated his professional career to serving others as a health care administrator with the Veterans Administration Hospital in Erie.

While proud of his professional accomplishments, John's true vocation was one of service. In his younger years, he honorably served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. A lifelong athlete, he found great joy in swimming, running, and participating in Erie Quad Races and Running Club events. He was also a lifelong fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies, and 76ers, cheering for his hometown teams no matter the outcome.

Faith was at the center of John's life. He shared his gift of music as a cantor and choir member at St. Cyprian Church in Waterford, Pennsylvania, and later at St. George Church in Erie. Deeply committed to ministry, he was active in Cursillo (De Colores!) and marriage counseling, helping countless individuals and couples strengthen their faith and relationships. In 2001, John was ordained a Deacon in the Diocese of Erie, where he faithfully served the parishioners of Our Lady of Mercy in Harborcreek. Among his many ministries, he was especially proud of his work assisting refugees and helping those in need find hope, dignity, and belonging.

Recovery was one of the defining chapters of John's life. This achievement opened doors to opportunities, relationships, and a sense of purpose that he often said would not have been possible without his commitment to sobriety. Blessed with 27 years of recovery, he felt deeply honored to support and encourage others on their own journeys.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John William Brophy and Bernice Elizabeth (McGrath) Brophy.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen "Kathi" Brophy; his children, Kelso (Tracy) Hirner-Brophy, Shane (Jonathan) Brophy-Johnson, and Shannon K. Brophy; his sister Rita A. (John) Bianci; his cherished grandchildren, Shannon Brophy (Nick Coons), Johnny Brophy, Julia Johnson, Mac Johnson, Catherine Johnson, Paulina Johnson, Maria Brophy, and Kennedi Hirner-Brophy; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

To know John was to know kindness. He never met a stranger and was always willing to offer a helping hand, a listening ear, or a word of encouragement. Whether spending time with family, friends, fellow parishioners, or someone he had just met, John made people feel seen, valued, and loved.

He found great joy in the traditions and simple blessings of life: the annual "Brophy Week" gatherings in Sea Isle City, New Jersey; morning prayers on the beach with his beloved dog, Millie; Christmas tree hunts through deep Waterford snow; gathering on the "deacon's bench" with friends; running along the shoreline; traveling with family and friends; serving those less fortunate; and, most of all, spending time with his grandchildren.

John led by example. Through his faith, humility, generosity, and servant's heart, he taught those around him what mattered most. He found far greater joy in serving others than in receiving anything in return.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who cared for John with dignity, compassion, and kindness during his final days.

On November 14th, 2026, at 11am, a Funeral Mass, followed by a luncheon celebrating John's life, will be held at St Joseph Catholic Church at 3100 26th st. W, Bradenton, FL 34205.

On November 16th, 2026, at 10am, the Interment with military honors will take place at Sarasota National Cemetery in Sarasota, Florida.