John Woodrow Hedges

John Woodrow Hedges (March 13th, 1915-October 29th, 2012) “Home is the sailor…” Though with so many of his generation he had sailed into harm’s way, today he journeys home in peace. Though sight in this world was taken from him, today he sees his Lord Face to face. John Woodrow Hedges was born the 13th of March 1915 to John and Mary Hedges in Clinton County Missouri. In High School he held the state records for shot-put, discus and javelin. In 1933 at eighteen he joined the U.S. Navy and served there for the next twenty years, becoming a Chief Petty Officer less than nine years after enlistment. One wartime commendation reads, “…for courageous, efficient, determined action in the presence of air attack and at the risk of submarine attack… conduct in keeping with the highest traditions of Naval Service.” After World War II and Korea, John went to college and worked for the Post Office. Yet he who had known war treasured most the peace of family and faith. After 72 years together, his beloved wife, Virginia (McIntire), preceded him home earlier this year. Again, in Heaven they dance… John is survived by his eldest son, Fr. Jon-Stephen Hedges and his wife, Melissa, their daughter Sarah and her sons, Cole and Ethan; Fr. Jon and Melissa’s son, Ben and his wife, Victoria with their daughter, Sydney and sons Noah and Luke. John is also survived by his son, Keith Hedges and his fiancé Evelyn, Keith’s daughter Vanessa and her husband Seth Wells, their daughter Peyton and son Thadeus; Keith’s son Kevin and his wife Gaga; Keith’s daughters Rachel, Megan and Emily. John had sight in his heart though not his eyes. He listened attentively and spoke only wisdom and grace or on occasion, something very silly and joyful. That is why his life gave each and all he met, especially children, the touch of heaven he had in his heart. Arrangements are with Welch, Ryce, Haider and there will be a Tribute Wall for John on their website at www.wrhsb.com where photos and messages may be posted. Trisagion Prayers for the departed will be said at John’s parish, St. Athanasius Orthodox Church (5580 Calle Real, Goleta) Sunday November 4th at 5:00PM. The Funeral will be at the Church Monday November 5th at 10:00 AM with burial and military honors at Goleta Cemetery following immediately. In lieu of flowers, John had asked before his passing that memorial donations be made either to the Building Fund at St. Athanasius Church (PO Box 35 Goleta, CA 93116) or to John’s beloved Sarah House (2612 Modoc Road Santa Barbara, CA 93105). May his memory be eternal and his virtues multiplied among us!

John Woodrow Hedges

March 13, 1915 - October 29, 2012