John Paul Rios, 61, born April 8, 1965, in Gary, Indiana, passed away on Monday, October 19, 2026, in Jackson, Tennessee. Though his time here on earth has come to an end, the love, laughter, and memories he leaves behind will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
John dedicated nearly 40 years of his life to the tree service industry, where he worked primarily as a climber and foreman. He was a hardworking man who took tremendous pride in everything he did. Whether he was leading a crew high above the ground or tackling a project at home, John believed that anything worth doing was worth doing right.
Those who knew John knew that he had a particular way of doing things, and there was usually a good reason for it. Whether it was finding the perfect campsite, packing a vehicle just right, making sure the patterns lined up perfectly on Christmas wrapping paper, or ensuring his shirt was tucked and sitting exactly as it should, John had an eye for detail and a determination to get things right. His meticulous nature was simply part of what made him John.
Outside of work, John enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing, camping, spending time with friends, listening to good old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll, and watching classic Western movies. He appreciated good company, good conversation, and any opportunity to share a laugh.
And what a laugh he had. John’s larger-than-life personality, quick sense of humor, and unmistakably loud, contagious laughter could fill a room. He was the kind of man who could make you laugh even when you didn’t feel much like smiling.
But beneath that humor was a man of unwavering loyalty and a tremendous heart. John loved fiercely, stood firmly by the people he cared about, and never hesitated to defend a friend or family member. He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back and stand beside you when you needed someone most. If John called you a friend, you had a friend for life.
John is survived by his daughter, Heather Hallman; his stepdaughter, Jessica Johnson; his beloved grandsons, SJ and Elliot Johnson; and his brothers, Tony, Cico, and Vinny Rios. He was preceded in death by his parents, Brenda and Pete Rios.
A man of Christian faith who had accepted Christ and been baptized, John now rests in the peace and presence of his Lord and Savior.
John’s legacy will not be measured by possessions or accomplishments alone, but by the loyalty he showed, the friendships he treasured, the family he loved, and the countless lives he touched along the way.
He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his attention to detail, his generous spirit, his fierce devotion to those he loved, and, perhaps most of all, that unforgettable laugh.
John loved hard, laughed loud, and stood strong for the people he called his own. He was one of a kind, and he will be deeply missed.
Until we meet again, may you rest peacefully in the arms of the Lord.