“The reason that I don’t regret dying is that I have had a really good time.”
John Roger Floyd, 73, of South Burlington, Vt., wishes he had written that line himself, though he credits Studs Terkel for the quote. In truth, John did have a very good time — and a great life — rich with love, creativity, community and curiosity.
The greatest joy of his life was falling in love with his wife of nearly 48 years, Kathy (Lally) Floyd, whom he met while they were students at SUNY Potsdam. They married in April 1978 and were blessed with two children, Kate and Patrick, and later three grandchildren; being a “Papa” was one of John’s favorite roles. He delighted in family travel across the country; treasured summers at his sister Meg’s cabin in Belgrade Lakes, Maine; and later enjoyed European adventures with Kathy. He also loved exploring the outdoors as a skier, hiker and kayaker. He believed in welcoming serendipitous moments and said one should “let yourself be open to surprise.”
Taught woodworking by his father, Roger, an amateur cabinetmaker, John discovered a lifelong passion for craftsmanship. That passion led him to making signs after moving with Kathy to Fort Collins, Colo., and eventually to Vermont, where he established Design Signs in Burlington’s South End. What began as a one-person operation grew into a respected business known for thoughtful design and quality, made possible by dedicated employees Jim Narsh and Phil Seeley. John hoped his work made “a positive contribution to the built environment that will outlast me.”
Born in Peterborough, N.H., John was the son of Reverend Roger Floyd and Ellen Floyd. A preacher’s kid at heart, he was a devoted member of First Congregational Church in Burlington, where he wore many hats over the years, from deacon to president to head of the Search Committee for several beloved ministers whom he helped welcome into the church, as well as volunteering for the Ronald McDonald House. In his final year battling prostate cancer, he participated in a life-affirming support group hosted by Rev. Elissa Johnk, who has guided him so beautifully through trying times.
Eternal thanks go out to the amazing staff at the University of Vermont Medical Center’s Oncology and Hematology Department, especially Dr. Steven Ades, and to the McClure Miller Respite House for their compassionate care.
John is survived by his wife, Kathy; sister, Margaret (Floyd) McCann; children, Kate (Floyd) Proto (Paul) and Patrick Floyd (Lily Landes); beloved grandchildren, Xavier, Violet and Ramona; and many cherished nieces and nephews.
A celebration of John’s life will be held in warmer weather. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to UVM Home Health & Hospice (select McClure Miller Respite House) or the UVM Cancer Treatment Center Fund.