John Angus Wadsworth

John Angus Wadsworth, 72, of Diamondhead, Mississippi, passed away on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

John was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on January 16, 1954, to Oliver and Lucille Wadsworth. His lifelong love for the sea shaped his career. He proudly served in various roles, all deeply rooted in maritime service. Anyone who knew John was well aware of his devotion to the sea and his belief in being prepared for any situation.

John proudly served in the United States Coast Guard from 1973 to 1997, attaining the rank of Chief Warrant Officer (Boatswain). He served primarily in South Louisiana but also operated vessels in the Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and the Gulf of America.

In 1981, he transitioned from active duty in the Coast Guard to the Coast Guard Reserve and began working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, based in New Orleans, as a Tugboat Operator and Survey Boat Operator. In 1987, he leveraged his experience to begin a career with the U.S. Customs Service—now within the Department of Homeland Security—where he served from 1987 to 2007 as a Senior Special Agent and Senior Marine Officer.

Throughout every phase of his career, John maintained all required maritime licensure. His proudest professional achievement was earning his Master License as a Merchant Marine Officer, issued by the U.S. Coast Guard.

John enjoyed spending time with his family and loved the outdoors—fishing, hunting, and target shooting. He shared his passion for maritime history and seamanship with everyone around him and was always ready with a historical quote. If you visited him, you would likely find him watching the History Channel with subtitles on and the sound off. No visit ended without a practical gift and a hands-on “how-to” lesson.

“Semper Paratus,” Latin for “Always Ready,” the motto of the United States Coast Guard, was also John’s personal motto. You will be missed and forever remain in our hearts.

John was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Glenn Elizabeth Wadsworth.

He is survived by his companion, Millie Garza; two sons, James Wadsworth and Justin Wadsworth (Jeanie); his daughter, Jené Crosby (Jon); five grandchildren, Ian, Ana, Kai, Julien, and Olivia; and niece Elizabeth Ash Kensel (Desmond) and her children Devin and Leanora.

A graveside service will be held 10:00 am, Friday, February 20th at Lake Lawn Park, 5454 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Shriners Children’s or any charity that supports those who serve.

Condolences can be sent to 8920 Hamakua St., Diamondhead, MS 39525.

Edmond Fahey Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of John Wadsworth.