John Rumbaugh Obituary

John Joseph "Jay" Rumbaugh, 79, passed away on October 3, 2025, in Fernandina Beach, Florida. A husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and veteran, Jay led a life marked by service, adventure, and creativity. Born on September 11, 1946, in Ottumwa, Iowa. He spent his early years in the Midwest before graduating from high school in Golden, Colorado in 1964. He later earned a Bachelor's degree from Regent's College in New York.
In 1967, Jay began a distinguished 20-year career in the United States Navy. Rising to the rank of RMCS (SW), he served with honor until his retirement in 1987. A Vietnam Veteran and graduate of the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, California, his naval career took him across the globe. He was stationed at bases throughout the United States and abroad-including Londonderry, Northern Ireland; Naples, Italy; and Balboa, Panama. His deployments brought him to diverse locations such as the Arctic Circle and Hong Kong and included time offshore of Lebanon during the tumultuous 1980's. Following his military retirement, Jay embarked on a new journey alongside his beloved wife Pamela, with whom he shared 58 years of life. Together they traveled coast to coast as long-distance truck drivers-continuing their shared spirit of exploration and partnership. Jay was also a man of many interests. While stationed in Europe during the 1970s, he developed a passion for collecting coins and stamps-a hobby that reflected his appreciation for history and culture. Later in life, he turned his creative energy toward stained glass artistry, crafting beautiful pieces that showcased both skill and imagination.
He came from a Roman Catholic background but embraced Mormonism in the 1980s.
Jay is survived by his loving wife Pamela; daughter Dawn Holder and her husband Donnie Holder; grandchildren Caitlin, Donnie, and Gwyneth; great-grandchildren Lilian, Naomi, Gideon, and Kristopher; as well as three siblings. He was preceded in death by his daughter Heather Rumbaugh and his parents DeWyatt and Maxine (Schmitd) Rumbaugh. John Joseph "Jay" Rumbaugh will be remembered for his dedication to service-both military and personal-and for the enduring love he shared with those closest to him.