John Derwood Backer Sr.

John Derwood Backer Sr.

January 25, 1943 – June 4, 2026

John Derwood Backer Sr., a longtime Arizona resident, peacefully entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior on June 4, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona, at the age of 83.

John was born on January 25, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, to Dorothy Elizabeth (Ray) Backer and Fred Dwight Backer Sr. He spent his childhood growing up in Dundee, New York, where he developed the strong work ethic, resilience, and determination that would define his life.

Throughout his life, John was known as a hardworking and skilled craftsman. He began his working career in a grocery store before becoming a machinist and tool and die maker. During his career, he worked for Red Mason Machine Shop and Lear Siegler, earning the respect of coworkers and friends through his dedication, precision, and commitment to excellence.

John spent approximately 15 years living in New York, 27 years in Tennessee, and 40 years in Arizona. Along the way, he built lifelong friendships and touched the lives of many people through his kindness, humor, and willingness to lend a helping hand.

In Tennessee, John met and married Mary Moyers Backer Garrett. Together they raised their four sons: John D. Backer Jr. (Roberta “Robin” Goad Backer), William Henry Backer, James Harrison Backer (Misty (Cline) Backer), and Timothy Wayne Backer (Charlotte (Moore) Backer). In 1986, John married Pamela Masters Backer, and together they welcomed their son, Kyle James Backer.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy Elizabeth (Ray) Backer and Fred Dwight Backer Sr.; his brother, Mike Backer; his wife, Pamela Masters Backer; and his beloved son, Timothy Wayne Backer.

He is survived by his sons, John D. Backer Jr., William Henry Backer, James Harrison Backer, and Kyle James Backer. He is also survived by his siblings Fred Backer Jr. (Linda Lorraine (Aylesworth) Backer), Donald Backer, Carol Backer Vasquez, and Mary Backer.

John is further survived by his grandchildren Brianna, Amanda, Haley Spuhler Young (Tate Young), Jessica, and Luke Backer, children of John Jr.; Cassie and James Backer Jr., children of James; and Bradley Backer (Taylor Backer), son of Timothy and Charlotte Backer. John was blessed with ten great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him tremendous pride and joy.

In addition to his immediate family, John leaves behind a large extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends. Family was always important to him, and he treasured the relationships and memories he shared with those he loved throughout his life.

He is also survived by his former wife and the mother of four of his sons, Mary Moyers Backer Garrett; Jocelyn Denaga Honorica, with whom he shared a cherished long-distance relationship that brought much love, friendship, and happiness into his life; and his dear friend Carolina Soto, whose companionship, devotion, and care brought comfort and support throughout his later years. Carolina spent time with John nearly every day, faithfully checking on him, encouraging him, and providing companionship and care throughout the final years of his life.

Those who knew John will remember his quick wit, warm heart, remarkable mental and physical toughness, and deep love for family and friends. He possessed a unique sense of humor and had a gift for finding laughter in everyday situations. One favorite family story involved a buffet where John enthusiastically filled a bowl with what he thought was ice cream, only to discover after taking a large bite that it was actually butter. The story became a favorite and brought laughter to family gatherings for years afterward.

John enjoyed spending time with family and friends and was happiest when surrounded by those he loved. He faced life's challenges with determination and strength, never allowing adversity to define him. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering loyalty left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

In his later years, through the friendship and encouragement of Carolina Soto, John began attending church and ultimately accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. His faith brought him peace, comfort, and hope, and became an important source of strength during the final chapter of his life.

John's greatest legacy is the family he loved, the friendships he cherished, and the values he passed on through his example of hard work, perseverance, kindness, and courage. Though his absence leaves a void in the hearts of those who loved him, his memory lives on in the laughter he shared, the lives he touched, and the enduring love of his family.

Though he will be deeply missed, his family rejoices in the promise of eternal life and finds peace in knowing they will see him again.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

A celebration of John's life will be announced by the family at a later date.

The family sincerely appreciates the many expressions of love, prayers, and support. While your kindness is deeply appreciated, no fundraising efforts or memorial collections are being requested, as John's final expenses and arrangements have already been provided for.