John Edward Sadowski

Deacon John Edward Sadowski, a longtime resident of Chase City, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the age of 86. Born in New Jersey on December 27, 1939, John lived a life defined by deep dedication to family, service, and faith.

He served his country for four years in the Navy before devoting 30 years to the Ocean County Sheriff's Department in Toms River, New Jersey, where he rose to the position of Chief of the Sheriff's Department. His commitment to law enforcement was strengthened through his training at the FBI Academy. Beyond his professional career, John was actively involved in prison ministry as a Deacon, viewing it as a vital expression of his faith and desire to serve others.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Barbara Sanko Sadowski; his daughters Sharon Lee Sadowski, Donna Marie Seate, Valerie Jean Sadowski, Barbara Mary Sadowski, Judith Suzanne Sadowski, Kathleen Noel Thomason (Mark), Deborah Joy Langdon (Roy), Cheryl Ann Sadowski, and Marion Rose Noll (Bill); 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and his brother Arnold Sadowski. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Rose Sadowski. His greatest legacy remains the loving family he raised and nurtured, who will continue to honor his memory and the values he lived by.