South Hadley, MA – John David Magnino, 79, of South Hadley, Massachusetts passed away on Easter Saturday, April 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born August 23, 1946 in San Bernardino, California to the late Ardeveno and Angelina (Aimonino-Ricauda) Magnino, John was a second and third generation American. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, whose life was defined by service and dedication.
John graduated from California Polytechnic College at Pomona. Following his education, John joined the United States Navy and earned his wings as a Naval Aviator on August 13, 1971 in Corpus Christi, Texas. Specializing in Anti-Submarine Warfare, he made several cruises on aircraft carriers in the North Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans as well as the Mediterranean Sea. He was the Commanding Officer of Fleet Logistics Squadron (VRC 40), based in Norfolk, Virginia. John proudly served his country for 20 years, retiring in May 1990. His commitment to learning continued as he earned a Master in Education from The George Washington University in 1991. In the fall of 1990, John began teaching, something he had put off for 20 years for the Navy, as a Navy Jr. ROTC instructor at Quabbin Regional School in Barre, Massachusetts, teaching naval science courses as well as introducing students to aviation with computer flight programs. He taught at Quabbin for 18 years before retiring.
While teaching in Barre, John lived in the abutting town of Petersham where he was deeply involved with the Petersham Lions Club, running their curling tournament to raise money for Lions Eye Research and St. Peter’s Catholic Church, serving on the renovation committee and Parish Council and organizing the annual fair. After 24 years, John and his wife moved to South Hadley and became residents of Loomis Village where he enjoyed working on the campus forested areas and maintaining the walking trails. He also conducted the annual Memorial Day and Veterans Day programs. John became active at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, serving as a Eucharistic minister and would bring communion to residents who could no longer go to Sunday Mass. John also volunteered at the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Food Pantry.
John is survived by his wife of 55 years, Leilani, daughters Stefani Holmes, Natalie Murphy (Todd) and Tiffany Grygus (Michael), seven grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins and extended family and friends who cherish his memory.
Services to honor John’s rich life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Lions Club International Eye Research and/or Neighbors Helping Neighbors Food Pantry in South Hadley.
Click here to sign the guest book or honor their memory with flowers, donations, or other heartfelt tributes