John Morris Upperman

In Loving Memory of John Morris Upperman

John Morris Upperman, a devoted husband, a dedicated serviceman, and a beloved father, passed away on Monday, May 29, 2023, in Arlington, Texas, at the age of 86. Born on May 17, 1937, in South River, New Jersey, to John Marsh Upperman and Sarah Jane Bevis Upperman, John’s life was one of service, integrity, and quiet strength.

John’s journey began when he married Jacquelyn Roberta Howerin on June 13, 1959. Their union was a testament to love, commitment, and companionship, which endured through the years. Together, they built a life filled with cherished memories and deep-rooted love.

A true patriot, John served his country with honor and distinction. He dedicated four years of his life to the U.S. Marine Corps, where he contributed his skills and expertise in working on helicopters. Continuing his commitment to service, John spent 22 years in the U.S. Air Force before retiring. During his military career, he applied his talents as an electrician, specializing in the repair of aircraft, including the iconic B-52 bombers and fighter jets. John’s exceptional dedication and knowledge left an indelible mark on his comrades and the aviation community.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, John embarked on a new chapter in life when he joined the Arlington Independent School District as a heating and air conditioning specialist. He later taught the subject at TCJC, sharing his wealth of experience and skills with future generations. His passion for learning and his desire to empower others was evident in the way he connected with his students, leaving an enduring impact on their lives.

John possessed a gentle nature and an unwavering sense of integrity. Reserved and thoughtful, he carried himself with quiet dignity, earning the respect and admiration of all who knew him. With his sharp mind and insatiable curiosity, he was a wealth of knowledge, always willing to share his insights and wisdom with others. John found joy in watching war movies and staying informed about local and national news, staying engaged with the world around him.

Beyond his intellectual pursuits, John had a knack for tinkering with electronics and gadgets. He found solace in the great outdoors, where he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and collecting guns. A true sports enthusiast, he spent many years as a baseball and softball umpire as well as a football referee. He held a lifelong passion for the Dallas Cowboys, supporting them since their inception as a team. His unwavering loyalty and enthusiasm made him a true-blue fan, embracing the triumphs and the challenges of his beloved team.

John was a man of substance, known for his unwavering principles, quiet strength, and deep love for his family. His presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Sarah Upperman, his older sister, Juanita Rathbun, and his great-granddaughter Mina Dupont.

His life was shaped by the love he shared with his family. He leaves behind a profound and lasting legacy, cherished by his 5 children and their spouses: Michael David Upperman, Cynthia Lee O’Connor and her husband Mike O’Connor, Deborah Michele Corgliano, Sharon Lynn DeFalco and her husband Phillip DeFalco, and John Robert Upperman and his wife Kim Upperman.

His legacy extends to his 20 grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life: Billie, Christopher, Justin, Aaron, Adam, Madeline, Daniel, Luke, Jake, Joseph, Nicolas, Brianna, Jessica, Jennifer, Jeremy, Johnathon, Jordan, Jesse, Joel, and Josiah.

Additionally, John was blessed with 23 great-grandchildren: Ashley, Curtis, Kade, Savannah, Benjamin, Thomas, Claire, Kady, Heather, Joseph, Isaiah, Dante, Braxton, Nova, Annabell, Sophie, Anastasia, Bryce, Adalee, Isaac, Hope, John-Mattias, and Abram.

Lastly, he leaves behind 2 great-great-grandchildren: Rylan, Kashtyn, and one more on the way this fall.

John’s love for his family was immeasurable. His unwavering devotion, guidance, and unconditional love will forever serve as a guiding light for each and every member of his family. His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to be a source of strength and inspiration for generations to come.

As we mourn the loss of a remarkable man, we also celebrate the beautiful tapestry of family and the legacy of love that he leaves behind. May his spirit live on in the hearts of his beloved family, and may they find solace and comfort in the memories they shared with their cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather.