John Marion Dinwiddie

John (Johnny) Marion Dinwiddie, a beloved resident of Highland, California, passed away peacefully at his home on December 29, 2025.

Born January 6, 1942, in Muncie, Indiana, John was the second of four children of Madeline Louise and Curley W. Dinwiddie. He attended West Longfellow Elementary, McKinley Junior High, and graduated from Muncie Central High School in 1960.

In 1964, John was drafted into the United States Army and served honorably during the Vietnam War, stationed at An Khe. Following his decorated service, he returned to Muncie and joined the Muncie Police Department in 1968.

In 1974, seeking new opportunities and scenery, John moved to California where he met his life partner and best friend Phyllis. They were married, started their family and he began a distinguished 23-year career with the Southern California Rapid Transit District (SCRTD), later the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA). His dedication and work ethic earned him numerous awards and commendations throughout his tenure. After retiring, John enjoyed traveling with his wife, reading, watching his favorite westerns and NBA basketball, and doting on his grandchildren. He especially cherished his annual trips to the NBA All-Star Game with his younger brother Rashid (Bill) and could often be seen on his daily walks up Baseline hill and Church street. John loved music, especially jazz, and could often be found playing Coltrane or Davis at full volume. His deep voice was easily recognizable and was frequently heard singing along to songs by Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and many of his other favorites. Laker games with Chick Hearn on the radio while the game was muted on the television is a signature memory.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Curley W. and Madeline Louise Dinwiddie; his brother Rashid K. Shabazz (Bill Dinwiddie); father-in-law L.D. Hunter; mother-in-law Theresa Hunter; and grandson Jonathan Morgan Dinwiddie.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Phyllis Dinwiddie (Hunter); sisters Ambernita Barnes and Karen Thompson (Jerry); children Phyillies Beatty (John), Kahlil Dinwiddie (Kim), Malik Dinwiddie, and his “baby girl” Kamilah Koleszar (Brad); grandchildren Jayden M. Dinwiddie, Jordan M. Dinwiddie, Brooklyn Koleszar, Elias Dinwiddie, Nixon Koleszar, and Lennox Koleszar; and five cherished bonus granddaughters Christasia, Alyssa, Avery, Ashlie, and Alaina. He also leaves behind brothers-in-law Capt. Lawrence Hunter II (Ret.) and Dr. Jerome Hunter (Adleane); sisters-in-law Annie Ruth Jones and Denise Burch (Demetrius).

To be one of Uncle Johnny’s nieces or nephews was to feel like one of his own children. He also leaves behind: Faith Ann Barnes, April Barnes, Yolanda Barnes-Taylor, Chandler Thompson, Dr. Rashid Shabazz, Jerrika Johnson, LaDrena Adams, Rasul Shabazz, Windy Thompson, Rahim Shabazz and a host of grand and great grand nieces, nephews and cousins. His love for God and family came first, but his passion for music and sports was never far behind.

John believed in education, hard work, and always presenting himself with humble pride. His steady, consistent, and unwavering nature touched everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.