John H. Marr, known to just about everyone as Johnny Marr, was born in Brooklyn, New York, on May 6, 1955. He grew up in Massapequa Park as one of five siblings and attended Our Lady of Lourdes. From an early age, he embodied what it meant to serve others, becoming an altar boy and carrying those values of faith, community, and compassion with him for the rest of his life. In 1973, he graduated from Berner High School, where he played soccer and was a natural leader on and off the field.

In May 1983, John joined the FDNY, a job that was more than a career; it was his life. Even after he retired, he was always showing up and being there for his brothers and sisters in the FDNY. His kids used to joke they could never get him to leave the firehouse. He started and ended his career with Engine 34/Ladder 21 in Hell’s Kitchen and served at Engine 313 and Ladder 164 in Douglaston. He received commendations for bravery during a 1995 fire.

He called firefighting “the ultimate team sport,” but one that went beyond teamwork. “You’re part of a brotherhood,” he said. “People depend on you.” He responded on 9/11 and in the days and months that followed served in the rescue and recovery efforts at Ground Zero while he dedicated his time to the families who lost loved ones.

John retired in 2003 but never stopped being a firefighter. He volunteered for the FDNY’s Special Olympics program, marched in every St. Patrick’s Day Parade (spraying his beard green), and was a proud member of the FDNY softball and basketball teams.

In Lindenhurst, he was a dedicated coach and mentor in youth sports. He coached countless teams and always gave every kid a chance to shine.

At home, he was simply the best—the best coach, the best husband, the best dad. He was married to the love of his life, Kim, for 29 years, and together they raised Jacquelyn, Elizabeth, and Luke in a home filled with loyalty, laughter, and music. He loved the Mets (painfully), the Jets, and music with his whole soul. There was always music playing in the Marr house.

In 2013, John was diagnosed with 9/11-related cancer, a battle he faced with the same courage and humor that defined his life. He passed on April 7, 2020, at age 64, surrounded by family.

John left behind lessons that still echo. Show up. Be kind. Work hard. Be a friend first. And when asked how he was doing, “Good, bad, and ugly. Hakuna Matata.”