John J. Sova

John J. Sova passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on June 17, 2026. John was married to Lynda (Baker) on July 14, 1973, and they enjoyed just shy of 53 wonderful years together. John, known as Jack to his many friends, was born on December 16, 1945 in Stamford, Connecticut to Bernadette M. (Sullivan) Sova and John F. Sova. Jack is survived by his wife, two children, Matthew (Rachel) and Elizabeth (Gabriel), and six grandchildren, Leo, Harper, Allen, Ethan, Susannah, and Vivian. He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings, Joan, Patricia, and Cathy. He graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1968 and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army. He served with distinction as an Army Aviator, Artilleryman and Comptroller for over 22 years. He received an MBA from Syracuse University in 1978. He served multiple field and aviation duty tours in Vietnam, Germany, and at the Pentagon. He earned multiple Air Medals, Air Medal w/V, Distinguished Flying Crosses, Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, and the Legion of Merit. After retiring from the military, Jack went on to a career in financial management. Later, he assumed a position as the defacto Comptroller for the Criminals Investigation Task Force (CITF), a Department of Defense directed Army Joint Task Force whose mission was to bring those who either planned, participated in or directly performed hostile acts against Americans to justice. In retirement, Jack took on his proudest role as Grandpa. He planned his days around sports games, swim lessons, water parks, and going out for ice cream. He carried backpacks and pushed strollers through amusement parks and across the world, and never let his grandkids pass up a gift shop. Jack was kind and helpful. A dedicated family man, he treasured his close friends and family. He loved his kids, grandkids, and granddogs. He was an excellent short-order cook and dressed up even the simplest of meals. He loved dogs and always wondered what they were thinking. He kept a family of crows fed for generations, always helped turtles cross the road, and never killed a spider. He was thoughtful, generous, and honest, and no one who closely knew him will ever forget Jack’s unique sense of humor. Jack was a friend to many. He was a servant leader who prioritized the growth, wellbeing and the empowerment of all associated with him. He was part of incredible teams, and was a believer that true leadership is found in those willing to risk everything for someone else. After a life of good works, of sincere and unselfish devotion to his country, his family and his fellow men, he has passed to his reward, leaving his family the priceless heritage of a good name and an honorable and upright life. The family will receive visitors Tuesday, June 23rd from 6-8pm at Miller Funeral Home, 3200 Golansky Blvd., Woodbridge. Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday, June 24th from 1030-1130am with a reception from 1130am-1230pm at Immanuel Anglican Church, 7075 Hoadly Rd, Manassas. Interment will follow at Quantico National Cemetery at 130pm. In lieu of flowers his family suggests that you may donate to a charity of your choice.

Tributes

John J. Sova

June 17, 2026