Staley, John's Obituary
John William Staley, 84, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away peacefully at home on April 8, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.
Services will be held at Sandario Baptist Church, 6971 N. Sandario Rd., Tucson, AZ, officiated by Reverend Robert McSpadden.
John was born on October 17, 1941, at Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul, Illinois, to Gladys Staley and Gordon Staley. He was married to Donna Staley (Darling), who preceded him in death in 1996.
He graduated from Champaign Senior High School in Champaign, Illinois, in 1959. John loved scuba diving and enjoyed playing pool with friends. He worked as a barber in Champaign, Illinois, for many years before moving to Tucson in 1978. After relocating, he was employed as a Fire Equipment Technician at the University of Arizona, where he worked until his retirement.
John was a devoted member of Sandario Baptist Church and deeply cherished the faith community there, whom he considered an extension of his family.
John shared a loving 24-year relationship with Barbara A. Olejnik of Tucson, Arizona, who was a devoted partner and companion. Together they shared family, friends, and many cherished memories.
John is also survived by his sisters, Barbara A. Nichols of Mahomet, Illinois; Linda K. Peterson of Melissa, Texas; and Carolyn S. Huddelston of Monticello, Illinois. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews, including Barbara Olejnik’s children and grandchildren, whom he loved dearly.
John’s love and kindness will forever be remembered.
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