John Anthony Roddy

John Anthony Roddy, 53, of East Longmeadow died Friday, August 12, at home after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Stockton, CA, on March 30, 1969, he was the son of the late Victoria Louise (Menatti) Roddy and was raised by Josie and Norman Moquin of Springfield, MA.

John was a 1987 graduate of Springfield Central High School and served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves until 1991.  His work in grocery store produce began as a teenager and became a passion.  He worked at Big Y for 15 years, Price Rite, and most recently for Geissler’s Supermarkets in Agawam since 2006 as produce manager.  John was a hard worker and had amazing customer service skills, ethics, and drive.

An avid sports fan, John favored the Boston teams but still held a place in his heart for his long-time favorite football team since childhood, the Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders.  He enjoyed golf, working out/lifting weights, fishing, and camping.  He loved animals, particularly his dog “Lady”.

John was incredibly brave and amazingly positive throughout his illness.  He was an inspiration to his family, friends, co-workers, nurses, and doctors.  He will be remembered for his kindness, generous spirit, graciousness, unending strength and determination, and zest for life.  His mottos were “Never give up” and “America baby”.

John loved his family very much and leaves his three sisters: Laura Topping of Dalton, Linda Bailey of Pittsfield, and Rebecca Albrecht of Ilion, NY; eight nieces, nephews, and godchildren; and a large extended family of cousins, aunts, and uncles.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Mary’s Church in Lee at 11:00am on Saturday, September 3rd.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dana-Farber Brigham & Women’s Cancer Center in care of the funeral home.