John Paul Strelec

Augusta, Ga. - JOHN PAUL STRELEC entered into rest on Sunday, November 5, 2017, at the age of 81. John was born on July 27, 1936, to Frank and Agnes Strelec in Tarentum, Pennsylvania. He received his education at St. Clement Catholic School, St. Fidelis Seminary, and Slippery Rock University.

John taught earth & space science and physical science for seven years in the Pittsburgh area public schools and was a planetarium director. One afternoon, while teaching at Ridge Avenue Junior High School, he asked a fellow teacher if he could carry her books. That pretty Greek girl, Sophia Papas, became his wife in 1962. They were married for 55 years.

John and Sophia moved to Augusta in June 1965 where he served in the Richmond County School System for thirty years as principal of William Robinson Elementary School, Tubman Junior High School, and assistant principal and principal at Glenn Hills High School. He was appointed Richmond County Superintendent of Schools in 1983 and served until June 1995 when he retired. He was recognized as Georgia Principal of the Year and Georgia Superintendent of the Year. He was also awarded the Key to the City by Mayor Charles DeVaney.

John was active in many civic and professional organizations including serving as a foundation trustee of Augusta Technical College and a St. Mary School commission member. He was also a perennial steward of his church,

As a trusted, dedicated educator, John was highly regarded. He was an Intellectual with unflappable integrity. He touched the lives of staff, students and families and created many fond memories for them. As a father, he instilled an appreciation of the outdoors, honed a sense of curiosity, and nurtured a respect for all living creatures. He challenged his children to remain true to their character. As a loving grandfather he was a model for how to live a genuine and fulfilling life. With his friends he enjoyed many hobbies such as hunting, fishing, and golfing. He smiled warmly and laughed easily at his own jokes. As a husband, he was loving and devoted. He and Sophia crossed many continents in their travels. John believed there was nothing more important than family, spending hours visiting around the large dining table. There was never a dull moment with him. He will be forever remembered and adored.

He is survived by his wife: Sophia; their daughter: Ann Beth Strelec; son: John, Jr. and his wife, Deborah; and their two children: Andrew Berry and Adam Strelec. He is also survived by his sister: Mary Strelec Deriso; brother: Frank Strelec; and sister: Eleanore Strelec.

The funeral will be Friday, November 10, 2017 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Social Services, 811 12th Street, Augusta, GA 30901or the Alzheimer's Association - Georgia Chapter, 106 SRP Drive, Suite A, Evans, GA 30809.

Visitation will be Thursday, November 9, 2017 from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com