**Originally shared by family on Legacy**
John Rueben Mosby passed away at the age of 54 on May 4, 2026 in Federal Way, Washington, leaving behind a legacy defined by compassion, leadership, generosity, lifelong learning, and an extraordinary ability to connect with people.
Born in El Cajon, California, and raised in Sacramento, California, John’s educational journey reflected the deep value he placed on personal growth and academic achievement throughout his life. He graduated from Christian Brothers High School before continuing his education at Saint Mary’s College of California, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. He later earned a Master’s degree in Educational and Counseling Psychology from University of the Pacific before completing his PhD in Leadership with an emphasis in Higher Education Administration from the University of San Diego, fulfilling a goal that became a cornerstone of his professional and personal journey.
John devoted his career to higher education and student success, serving in administrative roles at institutions including Skyline College and Mission College in California, and ultimately Highline College in Des Moines, Washington, where he served as president from 2018 through 2025. During his tenure, he guided the college through periods of growth and challenge while remaining deeply committed to equity, opportunity, and community.
While John was widely respected for his professional accomplishments, those closest to him knew his greatest gift was his connection to people. He genuinely loved conversation and had an unmatched ability to make others feel welcomed, valued, and understood. John loved to laugh, spend time with friends, and create moments filled with joy and genuine connection. His warmth, quick wit, humor, intelligence, and infectious personality made him the kind of person people naturally gravitated toward. Whether speaking with lifelong friends or someone he had just met, sharing stories, making people laugh, offering encouragement, or simply enjoying the company of those around him, John brought sincerity, authenticity, and joy into every room he entered. Over the years, he cultivated an extensive circle of friends whose lives were enriched by his presence.
John believed deeply in the power of education, mentorship, and human connection. He approached life with curiosity, empathy, and generosity, carrying those qualities into every room he entered. His influence extended far beyond his professional accomplishments — it lived in the encouragement he offered, the relationships he built, and the countless lives he positively impacted.
In recent years, John endured profound health challenges that tested him in countless ways. Even through those struggles, he continued to show remarkable strength, resilience, courage, and grace. Though his health became a difficult part of his journey, it never defined who he was. His focus remained on the people he loved, the friendships he cherished, and the work and community that meant so much to him.
John is survived by his mother, Brenda Robinson, of Sacramento, California; his father, John D. Mosby, of Albuquerque, New Mexico; his sister, Krista Mosby, and his nephew, Kristopher Mosby, of Auburn, Washington, whom he loved and treated as his own son; and his brother, Byron Barnes, of Columbus, Texas. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of kindness, intellect, compassion, and connection will endure in the many lives he touched.
There are two upcoming events in John’s hometown of Sacramento, California to honor his life and memory. A viewing will be held Friday, May 29 at Morgan Jones Funeral Home, with the funeral service and burial taking place the next day.