John Modecki-Mellett ‘66

John Modecki-Mellett, 77, passed away in the comfort of his own home, on April 26, 2026, surrounded by family. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, he was the son of the late John J. Mellett Jr. and Phyllis Adams Mellett. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Mellett.

After graduating from Ohio Dominican College, he was immediately drafted into the Army. When discharged, he liked to say that he stepped directly off the plane into a teaching job at his alma mater, St. Francis DeSales High School, assisting his mentor, Sister Philip Thacker, with their Theatre Program.

In 1983, John began his 30-year teaching career at Bishop Watterson High School. He taught English and Theatre and was the Director, Co-Director, or Technical Director for 29 plays and 28 musicals. When once asked about his work in Watterson Theatre, John said, "I got a great deal of satisfaction from working with all those people, all those years." He always told his students at the end of the pre-performance prayer circle, "Go Make a Memory." It was always about his students. He was a good man, who made a difference in the lives of many.

John enjoyed building things and fixing things and taking things apart, sometimes to the chagrin of his wife. He renovated many parts of his home over the 43 years living there, which made it better, stronger, and more comfortable and secure.

He enjoyed hanging out with his "Spuds" friends, especially his best friend, David Eberst. He loved all dogs, but especially his Brittany Spaniel, Daisy, who was waiting for him at the Rainbow Bridge when he arrived.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Barbara; his two children, Jane (Bob) O'Shaughnessy and Edward (Hally) Modecki-Mellett; grandchildren, Lucy, Joey, Ellie, and Fin; his siblings, Mary Mellett, Michael (Kenda) Mellett, David (Patty) Mellett, and numerous nieces and nephews. He loved his family fiercely.