John Desmond Reilly III of Hull, MA, left this world unexpectedly at the age of 41. His spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Born in Weymouth in 1984, John was the proud oldest brother of four siblings; a role he embraced fully by showering his family with love, laughter, and unwavering protection.
John, a father of four, cherished every moment that was given to him with his four beautiful daughters; Faith, Scarlett, Eleanor, and Samantha. He was the beloved son of John and Amber Reilly, the grandson of Frank and Diane Yannizzi, and the loving brother of Andrew (Jess) Reilly, Amber (Stephen) Harden, and Victoria (Cole) Dubord. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins and his faithful service dog, Archer.
After graduating as President of his class from Hull High School in 2003, John answered the call of duty and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Serving with the 1st Battalion, 8th Marines Weapons Company at Camp Lejeune, NC, he bravely participated in multiple combat deployments during the Global War on Terror, including Operation Phantom Fury in Fallujah, Iraq, in 2004. In 2005-to 2006 John was deployed on the USS Iwo Jima with the 24th MEU to evacuate Americans from Lebanon and also aided in the cleanup of Hurricane Katrina . His courageous actions during Operation Phantom Fury earned him a meritorious promotion and the prestigious Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a Combat “V,” recognizing his acts of valor in combat. In 2006, he was selected for the Marine Corps Enlisted Commissioning Education Program at The Citadel, where he further developed his leadership skills.
John’s commitment to service extended beyond his military duties to his involvement in the community, including the War Memorial Commission, the Toys for Tots program, and supporting fellow veterans.
John’s legacy of love will always connect us and remain in our hearts.
A wake will be held at McNamara-Sparrell Funeral Home, 1 Summer St, Cohasset, MA 02025, on Sunday, December 14, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The funeral mass will be held on Monday, December 15th, at 10:00 AM at Saint Anne’s Church in Hull, Massachusetts. Burial will take place at the Hull Village Cemetery.