John Joseph "JJ" LaMaitre, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, veteran, and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 1, 2026, in Carrollton, Georgia, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was 71 years old.

Born on July 2, 1954, in Buffalo, New York, John was the son of the late John Elmer LaMaitre and Myra Elizabeth Zimmer Rippey. Following the loss of his father at a young age, he was lovingly raised by his stepfather, the late James Clifford Rippey, whom he proudly considered his father.

Known to family and friends as "JJ," John lived a life defined by service, dedication, laughter, and an unwavering love for those around him. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 26 years as an Aviation Ordnanceman, retiring with the rank of Master Chief. His military career was a source of immense pride, and he cherished the lifelong friendships and camaraderie forged during his years of service. A devoted member and leader within the Association of Aviation Ordnancemen, JJ dedicated countless hours to mentoring younger sailors, supporting fellow veterans and strengthening the organization he loved. His contributions at both the local and national levels left a lasting impact on the aviation ordnance community.

While his military accomplishments were many, John's greatest pride was his family. This October, he and his beloved wife, Theresa "Tess" LaMaitre, would have celebrated 49 years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, resilience, adventure, and countless cherished memories. Their marriage stood as a beautiful example of friendship, respect, and unconditional love.

John was a devoted father to his daughters, Patricia Carey (Alex) and Dawn Gillard (Bart), offering steadfast support, guidance, and encouragement throughout their lives. He took great joy in watching his family grow and was especially proud of the strong marriages and families his daughters built.

Of all his roles in life, none brought him more happiness than being "Papa" to his grandchildren, Savannah Gillard and Jonathan Preiss. They were the light of his life. Whether sharing stories, camping adventures with Grandma Tess in their fifth-wheel camper, or introducing them to places that held special meaning to him—especially Wasaga Beach, Ontario, where he spent summers with his grandmother as a child—he treasured every moment spent with them. The memories they created together will remain a lasting gift.

John also found happiness in his workshop, where he enjoyed spending hours working on projects and tinkering with anything that sparked his interest. He had a gift for storytelling, a quick wit, and a warm personality that drew people to him. His presence, laughter, and ability to make others feel welcome and loved will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his loving wife, Theresa "Tess" LaMaitre; daughters and sons-in-law, Patricia and Alex Carey, and Dawn and Bart Gillard; grandchildren, Savannah Gillard and Jonathan Preiss; sisters, Patricia Scholz, Sue Lauck, and Kim DePasquale; brothers, Jim Rippey, Cliff Rippey, and Tom Rippey; along with many extended family members, friends, fellow veterans, and members of the Association of Aviation Ordnancemen whose lives he touched throughout the years.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 2, 2026, in Carrollton, Georgia. Please contact the family for additional details.

In accordance with his wishes, John will be laid to rest at Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, California. Additional details will be announced as they become available.

Though his family and friends mourn his passing, they find comfort in a life well lived and in the countless memories he leaves behind. His legacy of service, devotion, generosity, and love will continue to live on in all who knew him.

Messages of condolence may be shared with the family at www.martin-hightower.com. Martin & Hightower Heritage Chapel is honored to serve the LaMaitre family.