Madison, MS
Funeral Home
Sebrell Funeral Home
Visitation
Service
Obituary
Military Service Tribute, Honors, and Obituary:
Recognizing and Honoring a Fallen Hero, Who Served Within the Mississippi National Guard. “Fallen, Yet Not Forgotten”.
In recognition of our proud American tradition of honorable service which our military men and women have given to their country and our State, we honor a Fallen Hero. Our nation, our state, and the National Guard Association of MS (NGAMS) regard the memorializing of its retired military deceased as an honorable and sacred obligation.
Another great Airman and Fallen Hero has been released from duty, passed from our ranks on September 28, 2026 and has moved on to his heavenly home. Retired Major John Arnold Tarr III, of Madison, MS, age 78, who had served within the MSANG within the 172nd Tactical Airlift Group, 172nd Airlift Wing has departed and gone to a better place with our Lord and Savior.
It takes a special person to serve within the military for their country, giving up their family time, comfort, and safety for their country, ultimately for all Americans to enjoy their freedoms, safety, and way of life. We now applaud you for your service to our country. A special message from General Douglas McArthur remains applicable today for our servicemen that have passed: “Old Soldiers never die; they just fade away”.
Rest in Peace Airman. We applaud your patriotism, sacrifices, and brave efforts in serving our country and your family for their support of your service. We thank you for your service. Without your efforts and your families’ support, our country would not stand so boldly, shine so bright, and live so free.
You now have earned a rest, so go fly with the Angels, go rest high on that mountain; your work on earth is done. Go to heaven a-shoutin’ Love for the Father and the Son.
Another great Airman has gone home, “Fallen, Yet Not Forgotten, Airman for Life”.
Obituary, Visitation, and Service details:
John Arnold Tarr III, who lived a life marked by service, devotion, laughter, and steadfast faith, passed away on September 28, 2026, in Madison, Mississippi, at the age of 78, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on September 10, 1948, in Memphis, Tennessee, John carried the spirit of his hometown with him throughout his life. He grew into a man whose presence could steady a room, whose humor could lighten a burden, and whose love for others was evident in every season of life. Above all else, John adored his family, cherishing every moment spent with them and holding a special, boundlessly proud place in his heart for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was funny, faith-filled, and loving—qualities that were not occasional traits, but the very foundation of who he was.
John graduated from Memphis State University in 1970 with a bachelor’s degree in Engineering, a milestone that reflected both his discipline and his determination to build a meaningful future. He answered a higher call to serve his country in the United States Air Force and continued his service in the Mississippi Air National Guard, serving honorably during both Vietnam and Desert Storm before eventually retiring as a Major of the 172nd Tactical Airlift Group in Jackson, Mississippi. Alongside his military service, John spent nearly 30 years as a dedicated medical sales representative. His dual career stood as a powerful testament to his hard work, commitment, and sense of duty, reflecting his deep understanding that a life well lived is measured by the service one gives to others.
He was a devoted Catholic whose faith shaped the way he lived, loved, and faced each day. John believed in showing up, standing firm, and trusting God through every triumph and trial. His life reminded those who knew him that faith is not simply spoken, but demonstrated in kindness, perseverance, and grace. He lived with purpose, and he encouraged others to do the same.
John found joy in the simple and meaningful pleasures of life. He loved flying, golf, fishing, and cooking, and each of these interests reflected something special about him. He enjoyed the freedom of the skies, the challenge of the game, the peace of the water, and the warmth of sharing a good meal with family and friends. Whether he was in the air, on the course, by the water, or in the kitchen, he brought the same spirit of enthusiasm and excellence that defined every part of his life.
He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Susie Tarr, with whom he built a beautiful life grounded in enduring love. He is also survived by his four children, John (Kim), Kathy, Tracie (Will), and Kelly (Sean). His legacy lives on through his 12 grandchildren, Miranda (Matt), Hannah (Charlie), Brandon (Jessica), Ashley, Johnny, John Sawyer, Landon, Camilla, Stella, Annie, John Henry, and Penelope, as well as his three great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immeasurable pride and joy. He is further survived by his sisters, Ginger (John) and Tina, and his brother, Terry (Betty), along with many nieces and nephews, extended family members, and friends who will carry his memory forward with gratitude and love.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Gloria, and his brother-in-law, Chris. Though their absence was deeply felt throughout his life, he now rests in the peace of reunion and eternal joy. His passing leaves a space that cannot be filled, yet his influence remains deeply rooted in the hearts of those who knew him.
He will be laid to rest with military honors at the North Mississippi Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Kilmichael, Mississippi.