John Allison Driggs (1936 – 2026)

John Allison Driggs passed away on May 10, 2026, in Potomac, Maryland, at the age of 89.

John Allison Driggs

He was born on July 11, 1936, in Jackson, Ohio, and carried with him throughout his life the values of hard work, steady purpose, and quiet kindness that were rooted in his upbringing. John lived a life marked by optimism, generosity, and thoughtfulness, and those qualities were evident in the way he approached his family, his career, and every relationship he built over the years. He was the kind of man who left people feeling encouraged and respected, and his presence brought calm and confidence to those around him.

John attended Ohio University, where he began shaping the foundation for a life of accomplishment and responsibility. Following his education, he built a distinguished career as Owner and President of The Driggs Companies, and more recently, ReAgg LLC. Through his leadership and through his involvement in real estate investments, he earned the respect of both colleagues and associates. He understood the importance of perseverance and sound judgment, and he carried those principles into every endeavor. His work reflected not only business acumen but also a deep commitment to building something lasting.

Above all, John was devoted to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Joanna. He is also survived by his son, Jeffrey Driggs, wife Kimberlee, and their children Carly, David and his wife, Katie, and Stephanie, along with great-grandchildren Wyatt and Daphne; his daughter, Jennifer Hamilton, husband Matthew, and their children Leah, Zachary, and Mackenzie, as well as Leah’s children, Colton and Greyson Seeger; and his daughter, Julia Mattern, husband Kerry, and their son, William Mattern. His family was one of his greatest sources of pride.

Those who knew John will remember his optimistic outlook, his generous spirit, and the thoughtful way he treated others. He had a gift for making people feel valued, and he often expressed care through consistent kindness and attention. He was a “grand-gesture kind of guy”. He was the type of man who listened carefully, spoke with purpose, and offered support when it was needed most. In both public and private life, he led by example, demonstrating that strength and gentleness can exist together in one person.

John will be remembered for his commitment to family and the integrity with which he lived. He believed in doing things the right way and in treating people fairly. His accomplishments in business were significant, but those who loved him will remember even more the character behind the achievements. He was a man of substance, and his legacy will live on in the family he nurtured, the life he created, and the many people he touched along the way.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though his loss leaves a profound emptiness, the example he set remains an enduring gift. His memory will continue to be a source of comfort and inspiration, and his life will be honored in the hearts of those who carry his legacy forward.

Services will be held privately with immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to Maryland Public Television or WETA, both of which he greatly enjoyed, or to organizations dedicated to pulmonary research.