John B Bond
January 7, 1952 – April 24, 2024
JOHN B. BOND OBITUARY
John B. Bond was born on January 7, 1952 in Selma, Alabama. He unexpectedly passed
away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at the age of 72 leaving a legacy behind. He is
survived by his beautiful wife, Judith D. Bond, who he told he loved every single day of his
last 42 years, as well as, by his 4 children, Tori Smith, PJ O’marra, Jonathan Bond, and
Becky Bond Abele, and 11 grandchildren. He adored his family and loved them all
unconditionally. John is preceded in death by his Father, Frank Bond, his Mother, Mable
Bond, and his Sister, Ruby Neinast.
John, J.B., attended college and played football at the Citadel, graduating in 1974 with a
Bachelors in Civil Engineering. In 1974, he joined the United States Air Force, USAF,
where he served his Country in many conflicts throughout his 45 years of service.
Following his distinguished career as a USAF pilot, Major J.B. Bond attended Embry
Riddle Aeronautical University where he graduated with his Masters in Aeronautical
Science.
On June 29, 2021, The Safety Hall of Fame inducted J.B. Bond for his “singularly unique
contribution and unequaled excellence over the course of more than 40 years, first as
active duty, then as an Air Force civilian as the Eastern Range’s senior Mission Flight
Control Officer (MFCO), and Launch Safety Officer (LSO)…Mr.Bond’s experience on the
range spanned not only the breadth of the Space Shuttle Program and historic flights but
also in the burgeoning development of commercial space. He began his service with
eastern range Safety as a rescue helicopter pilot on the first space shuttle flight.” J.B. had
launched over 800 rockets during his time as a MFCO and LSO, more than anyone in
history.
Despite JB’s distinguished accomplishments during his years of service, he was most
proud of his family. On June 10, 1983, John married the love of his life, Judith D. Bond.
Together, they raised four children, Tori, PJ, Jonathan, and Becky. He demonstrated his
boundless generosity and devotion as a father. John is survived by his grandchildren who
he adored and loved Kayle, Kailyn, Nathan, Caden, Ariana, Ashlyn, Jhett, Kash, James
(who he raised as a son/grandson), and his two bonus granddaughters Ariel, and Addison.
Because of them, he couldn’t help but also feel so proud to have two honorable Son in
Laws, Todd Smith and Tadd Abele and one beautiful Daughter in Law, Nicole Bond. If you
knew Papa, you knew his dedication to family, unwavering faith, and love for life were the
defining traits of his character.
Throughout his life, John was an active participant and avid water-skier with the Space
Coast Water Ski Club. He was an active member and Southern Regional Junior
Development Coordinator for the youth program with USA Water Ski. He absolutely loved
all the phases of judging, coaching, driving, organizing, and announcing events for the
kids.
In Retirement, John found joy and purpose in community engagement. He became a
staple at the local diner, cherishing breakfasts with friends. Known for his kindness,
laughter, engaging stories, and his unique ability to make everyone feel important, John
will be remembered by many. He passionately encouraged all he met to seize new
opportunities and live life to its fullest—advice he particularly cherished sharing with his
grandchildren, to whom he was not only a remarkable grandfather but also a mentor.
John’s legacy will be cherished by those who knew him, a life marked by service, love,
and the pursuit of happiness. Though his humble nature prevented him from sharing all of
his many significant accomplishments, he was KINDA A BIG DEAL!
If you feel the need to help the family, please do with what comes upon your heart.
Flowers to the Grove Church for the service, a card with a kind sentiment, or a donation to
the family that they will put towards children that need help paying for extracurricular
sports such as football, basketball, or baseball. The sports that Papa Bond loved so much.
Service will be held May 17th @ 8am at The Grove Church prompt followed by his
memorial at 10am at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery. We will be on Military Time!
Celebration of Life will follow!
Excerpt taken from Department of the Air Force Safety Hall of Fame Nomination -Bond (
AF Form 1206)
Authored by Patrick G. Youngson, Colonel, USAF Chief of Safety, 45th Space Wing

Upcoming Events
Service
MAY 17. 8:00 AM (ET)
The Grove Place
1450 Harrison St
Titusville , FL 32780
Burial
MAY 17. 10:00 AM (ET)
Cape Canaveral National Cemetery
5525 US Highway 1
Mims, FL 32754