John Dias

John Dias, a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and United States Air Force (USAF) veteran, passed away, 25 September 2026, surrounded by devoted family; a reflection of the life he lived and the love he gave so freely.

John was a strong, amiable, charitable, and caring man. His life is defined not simply by the years he lived or the work accomplished, but by the family he built, the example he set, and the people who loved him. He was a steady presence for those around him—counted on by peers and subordinates and whose strength and character helped shape the generations that followed him.

John proudly served his country in the USAF, enlisting in 1960, and later built a career in Civil Service at Laredo and Randolph Air Force Base, retiring with over 40 years of Government service. His last employment was as a Network Administrator at Holy Spirit Catholic Church.

A devout Catholic, John freely gave his time and energy to multiple projects, causes, and events. At St. Monica’s (Converse, TX), he headed up the Parrish Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) program and was a Board member of Rainbow House. In later years he still found time and energy to develop the Parrish directory for Our Lady of Perpetual Health (OLPH) and take part in OLPH bible study, and prayer groups.

At the heart of John’s life was his wife, Arlene, with whom he shared more than 65 years of marriage. Together they built a life and a family that grew to include four children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

John was the father of John Christopher Dias; Jason Dias and his wife, Susana; Rachel Rosas and her husband, Ruben; and Elizabeth Dias, who preceded him in death. His grandchildren are Brittany Dias, Kelsey Dias, Jessica Dias, Evan Dias, Joshua Jackson, Luke Rosas, and Gabriella Rosas. His great-grandchildren are Aria Eckstein and Oliver Eckstein.

The best measure of John’s life could be seen in those gathered around him at the end. They traveled from across the country to spend his final days by his side, surrounding him with the same love, care, and devotion he had given them throughout his life.

John leaves behind more than memories. He leaves behind a family shaped by his example, generations who carry pieces of him forward, and the legacy of a man deeply loved because he loved deeply.

His was a life well lived, and a life well loved.

Rosary and Mass to take place at OLPH, Selma, TX, October 16, 10:30 AM.