John W. Brodie

John William Brodie, age 84, passed into eternal life peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 10:50 p.m. at Fleur Heights Care Center in Des Moines while under the care of Suncrest Hospice. At the time of his passing, John was being serenaded by the voices of his family, while they were holding his hands and singing Amazing Grace.

John was born December 14, 1940, in Des Moines, Iowa. He was the first-born son of William Culligan Brodie and Wilma Maxine Tuttle. John was extremely proud of his Scotch Irish heritage. He was raised in humble beginnings, learning the value of brotherhood and family as he and his siblings encountered great hardships throughout their childhoods.

As a young man, he attended Abraham Lincoln High School in Des Moines, graduating in 1959. He excelled in academics in the classroom and athletics on the football field, often proclaiming, “Southside Pride!” Upon graduation, he continued to further his education at Drake University, until the United States Army called him to service. He proudly served in Germany, until his honorable discharge. After returning from the Army, John felt a sense of family obligation and decided to assist his mother in the running of her business. It was there that he met the woman he’d soon take as his bride.

On July 1, 1967, John married Phyllis Jean Leto. Together they had two daughters, Theresa and Suzanne.

John returned to Drake University, graduating in 1977, majoring in General Studies and Business. John was a hard worker, and during his extensive career was employed in Hospitality, Sales, Security, Vending, and RR Donnelly.

John, along with his wife and daughters, resided in their family home on Des Moines’ Southside for nearly six decades. Shortly after the death of his beloved wife, John was unable to live independently due to his declining health. At this time, his daughter, Suzie and granddaughter, Alexandrea became his fulltime care givers, as well as residing together. When his level of care needs increased, he was admitted to Fleur Heights Skilled Nursing Facility (ViaHealth Services). The staff there embraced John, along with all of his silly and mischievous behaviors. They were able to care for him at a level that best met his needs.

John stayed true to Drake University and enjoyed cheering on the Drake football and basketball teams. He attended games whenever he could. He was an avid reader and enjoyed spending time in his garden. He had a lovely singing voice, enjoyed dancing, and volunteered much of his time with his church. John was a dedicated member of Knight of Columbus. In his free time, John liked taking trips to Las Vegas, and visiting local casinos as well, to play the slot machines. Above all else, he treasured time spent with his family, and most recently with great-grandchildren that often visited him and brought a big smile to his face and joy to his heart.

He is survived by his daughters, Theresa Sullivan and Suzanne Tjaden; grandchildren, Brodie, Jesse and Tara Sullivan, Alexandrea Tjaden (Kenny Boatwright), and Izabella “Bella Bella” Guzman; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Douglas Brodie; nephews, Todd, Ryan and Tanner Brodie, Jacob Peake, and Joe W. Leto; niece, Sophie Brodie; and brother-in-law, Robert Leto.

John was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Jean “PJ” (Leto) Brodie; parents, Wilma Tuttle and William Brodie; brother, Stephen Brodie; nephew, Tom Leto; nieces, Laura Brodie and Susie Brodie; and brothers-in-law, Ray Leto and Ronald Leto.

Services will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 15 Indianola Avenue, Des Moines. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. with the Knights of Columbus concluding the visitation with a dedication ceremony. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:30 a.m. For those unable to attend the service in person, it will be livestreamed through a link that will be available below shortly.

Following the funeral, burial with military honors will be held at Iowa Veterans Cemetery, followed by a reception at the Veterans Reception Center in Van Meter, Iowa. John will be escorted to his final resting place by the Iowa Patriot Guard Riders.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to “Tom’s Closet” through Catholic Charities, Diocese of Des Moines, Food Pantry; St. Anthony Catholic Church; “Friends of the Cemetery” at Iowa Veterans Cemetery; or to American Legion Post 403, Veterans Reception Center.

The family wishes to express thanks to the entire staff at Fleur Heights Skilled Nursing Facility and Suncrest Hospice for their exemplary care and friendship bestowed to our father.

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