Sergeant Major John D. Olexa, USMC (Ret.)

Sergeant Major John D. Olexa, USMC (Ret.), 95, of Mingo Junction, Ohio, passed away Thursday May 28, 2026 at Liza’s Place in Wheeling, WV.

He was born May 1, 1931, in Mingo Junction, OH, a son of the late John and Anna (Hoyda) Olexa. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Sara E. (McNeill) Olexa on April 18, 2024; four brothers, Robert Olexa, James Olexa, Thomas Olexa and infant John B. Olexa; and three sisters, Rosemary Schwamberger, Ruth Afek and Barbara J. “Jeanie” Duska.

Sergeant Major John D. Olexa was retired from the United States Marine Corps where he served his country for over 30 years. He enlisted during the Korean War and served two tours in Vietnam. He served for 18 years with the rank Sergeant Major and 4 ½ years as Sergeant Major - Fleet Marine Force Pacific.

John was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus and the VFW all in Eldon, Missouri.

Surviving are six children, James Olexa of Sparta, TN, Theresa (Donald) Olexa-Olson of Elk Grove, CA, Katrina (Jon) Miguel of Ventura, CA, Mary Olexa-Ryan of Fallbrook, CA, Johanna (Cory) Abourezk of Arvada, CO and Anna (John Coffin) Olexa; his step-children; a special granddaughter, Amanda Styron of Encino, CA; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Friends will be received at St. Agnes Catholic Church on Friday June 5th from 9:00 a.m. until the time of his Funeral Liturgy with Mass at 10:00 a.m. with Rev. Fr. James M. Dunfee, celebrant. Entombment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Steubenville, OH, with military honors by the Ohio Valley Veterans Squad.

Memorial contributions may be directed in John’s memory to St. Agnes Catholic Church, 204 St. Clair Ave., Mingo Junction, OH 43938.

Offer condolences at www.wheelerfuneralhomes.com.