A Life of Service and Dedication

John James Rawlings, also known as JJ or Johnny, peacefully departed this earthly realm on January 10, 2024, at the age of 81 in Chico, CA. Born on June 9, 1942, in Norfolk, VA, he was the fifth child of James Waverly Rawlings and Mabel Lee Rawlings.

John’s unwavering kindness, funny spirit, and unwavering faith endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He has been Priscilla’s faithful husband, loving companion, and friend through many hard times.

Military and Public Service

John’s pursuit of knowledge led him to obtain his AA in criminal justice from Tidewater Community College. He embarked on a courageous path of service in the Army. For 27 years, he faithfully served his country, with 6 years of active duty and 21 years in the reserve. His selfless commitment took him to distant lands, spending 4 years stationed in Germany and 1 year in Vietnam.

Through his military career, he exemplified honor, duty, and sacrifice. During his reserve time, he had a fulfilling career with the City of Norfolk. For 30 years, he served with distinction, spending 18 years as a police officer and the remainder in HR and social services.

Community Involvement and Legacy

John also was elected to the Paradise town council on November 6, 2012. John ably served as the Town of Paradise Council’s alternative representative to the boards of Butte County Association of Governments and Butte County Air Quality Management District.

During his distinguished service on the Town Council, John worked tirelessly to improve service and access to the community’s animal control /shelter services. As a result of his initiative, the Animal Control Sustainability Committee was established to improve access to services and public health and safety.

John received a presidential appointment to the League of California Cities Employee Relations Policy Committee on January 9, 2013, and volunteered to serve on a League of California Cities ad hoc committee to review and rewrite policy. On January 24, 2014, he was awarded a certificate of completion for his participation in a League of California Cities New Mayors and Council Members Academy.

John was a member of the Sons in Retirement, SIR #52 of Northern California. He loved his time spent with his SIR buddies on the golf course, offering him not only an opportunity for recreation but also a chance to fellowship with his friends and fellow enthusiasts.

John attended North State Community Church, where he found strength, guidance, and fellowship.

Family and Legacy

John is survived by his wife of 18 years, Priscilla Rawlings; siblings Rosalyn Pugh, Jean Basnight, and Gordon Rawlings; cherished children Cindy Dahl, John Rawlings, Jason Rawlings, Brian Rawlings, and stepchildren Kimberly Jones and Caleb Jones; grandchildren Laurne Behnke, David Dahl, Madeline Rawlings, Quinton Rawlings, Cameron Rawlings, Dottie Rawlings, and Sophia Curran; and great-grandchildren Madison Dahl, David Dahl, Cameran Dahl, Dove Dahl, and Freada Behnke.

In the journey of life, John was preceded in death by his beloved son Joshua Rawlings and his brothers James Waverly Rawlings and Edward J. Rawlings.

Memorial Service and Interment

A memorial service and interment will be held at Glen Oaks Memorial, 1115 Midway, Chico, on June 20, 2024, at 12 PM. John will be laid to rest eternally in the embrace of his Heavenly Father.

Please join John’s family at 1:00 pm at Lakeside Pavilion, 2563 California Park Dr. Chico, for a reception and celebration of his life.

In Remembrance

John’s family invites you to share your memories, condolences, and stories about John’s life and legacy in the comments section below.