John William Molloy

John W. Molloy, age 101, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and a lifetime of cherished memories.

He was born on December 18, 1924, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to John and Mary (McGinn) Molloy. After the loss of his father to tuberculosis, he returned to Weller, where he was lovingly raised by his mother and grandparents.

John lived a long and meaningful life, defined by his deep devotion to family, quiet strength, and remarkable resilience. Over the course of more than a century, he witnessed extraordinary changes in the world, yet remained grounded in the values that shaped him—hard work, kindness, and an unwavering love for those closest to him.

He proudly served his country during the Korean War and later retired from the John Deere plant in Ankeny. In his free time, John found great joy in life’s simple pleasures—playing euchre, bowling in two leagues well into his 80s, tending his garden, and listening and dancing to Johnny Cash. He also enjoyed following—and occasionally placing a friendly wager on—horse racing.

A devoted member of the Basilica of St. John for over 70 years, John was also an active member of the Knights of Columbus and the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. He had a deep love for St. Patrick’s Day and was once honored as Irishman of the Year. It seems only fitting that he chose St. Patrick’s Day to leave this earthly world.

John cherished time spent with friends and family and never passed up the chance to share a Budweiser or two in good company.

He was the proud father of nine children, a role he embraced with deep love and commitment. His family continued to grow with 14 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy. He treasured family gatherings, storytelling, and the simple moments that brought loved ones together.

John will be remembered for his wisdom, steady presence, and the example he set for generations. Through his guidance, humor, and quiet support, he left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

John will be dearly missed by his children: Mary Molloy; Jonann Molloy-Earp; Beverly (Mike Mihalik) Molloy; Jack (Kelle) Molloy; Brian (Tammy) Molloy; Maureen (Randy) Harris; Patsy McGee; Peggy (Tim) White; and Mike (Bobbi) Molloy, his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, along with his siblings: Jimmy (Cathy) McGinn, and Dick (Martha) McGinn. and many extended family, all of whom carry forward his legacy of love and perseverance.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lucille (Jones) Molloy, grandson Leland Harris, his parents, and siblings; Betty Ann Unger, Phyllis Henderson, Barbara Chiafos, Dee Rosenbaum, and Joey McGinn.

Until we meet again, you will be deeply missed and forever held in our hearts. Thank you for everything. With all our love—your family.

A visitation will be held at the Basilica of St. John (1915 University Ave, Des Moines, IA) on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a rosary at 6:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at the Basilica of St. John on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be held at Glendale Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor his memory by spending time with loved ones and carrying forward the values he lived by so well. Memorials can be made to Friendly Sons of St Patrick and Basilica of St. John.

Please join us for a luncheon at the Basilica after the graveside service at Glendale Cemetery.