In Memoriam

In Memoriam
Posted on 04/21/2023

Obituary notices and memorial service announcements for current or past San Diego Unified employees can be included in the In Memoriam section of Newsline by e-mailing [email protected]. Out of respect for the individual, please include a link to a formal obituary or provide as much detail as possible about the individual's life and involvement at San Diego Unified.

Items will be removed after 60 days.


Grant J. Behnke

August 21, 1939 — September 13, 2024

Grant James Behnke, EdD, born August 21, 1939, passed away peacefully September 13, 2024, at the age of 85. Grant was a beloved husband, caring father, and accomplished educator. Grant earned his Bachelor Degree, Master Degree and Administrative Credential from San Diego State University and continued to earn his Doctorate of Education from UCLA. He dedicated over 40 years to the San Diego Unified School District. He began his career as a high school math teacher and later served as the Director of Testing and Evaluation services, where he made lasting contributions to educational standards.

Grant had a deep love for travel, and he and his wife explored many places together, making cherished memories. One of his favorite places being Baja California where he and his family enjoyed many memorable trips together.

Grant is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra who was his lifelong sweetheart. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love and joy. He is also survived by his loving daughters, Angela, Teresa, Gretchen, son in law Daryll and five beautiful, intelligent grandchildren, Jazmyn, Parker, Dustin, Garret, and Cassandra, who brought immense joy to his life. Grant’s love for education, adventure and family was at the heart of everything he did, and his influence will be felt for generations to come.

View Grant's Obituary.

Posted 10/03/2024


John H. Massie Sr.

John H. Massie Sr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on July 7th, 2024, at the age of 93. Born on November 17, 1930, in Lake Cormorant, Mississippi, to Mose Sr. and Leola Massie, John was the eldest of 14 children.

In 1950, John married the love of his life, Martha Terry, and they later moved to San Diego, California, where they raised their three children: Linda, Cheri, and John Jr.

John had a diverse career, working as a conductor assistant for the Santa Fe Railroad, proprietor of a gas station, and owner of Mel's Root Beer restaurant. He also worked with San Diego City Schools at Balboa Elementary until his retirement in 1992. His greatest accomplishment was serving as a Pastor and community pillar for over 50 years.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Martha, and 11 siblings and 1 great[great grandchild. He is survived by his children, Linda (San Diego, CA), Cheri (Hemet, CA), and John Jr. (San Diego, CA); his brother, Mose Jr. (Chicago, IL); and sister, Bennie Mae (Chicago, IL). He leaves behind 7 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

John will be remembered as a true servant of God with unwavering faith.

Funeral service will be held Saturday, July 20th, 2024 at 10:30 AM.

Hilltop Tabernacle Church
346 L St.
Chula Vista, CA

Final Arrangements entrusted to: Anderson-Ragsdale Mortuary.

5050 Federal BLVD, San Diego, CA 92102

(619)263-3141

View John's Obituary.

Posted 7/15/2024