John Shosky

John Shosky passed away in Alexandria, Virginia, where he resided. John was an accomplished speechwriter and author. As a national high school debate champion, he had the gift of eloquently presenting his ideas to the world. He earned his PhD in Law and Philosophy and became a speech writer for five presidential administrations and numerous cabinet members. Dr. Shosky has served in the Reagan, Bush (41), and Bush (43) Administrations, working in the Executive Office of the President, White House Public Affairs, The Department of Health and Human Services, The Department of Education, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Throughout his illustrious career, John poured his heart and soul into his work, crafting over 2800 speeches for government officials, political candidates, university presidents, and public interest advocates. This dedication amounted to roughly seven million words on the public record, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft. He has also worked extensively for clients in the private sector as the president of Roncalli Communications, Inc. In addition, Dr. Shosky has published more than seventy articles or editorials. He authored two books: Speaking to Lead, London: Bite Back Publishing 2010, and The Words of our Time, London: Bite Back Publishing 2012. John was also an accomplished educator. He taught more than 200 university undergraduate and graduate-level courses. Most recently, Dr. Shosky was a professor at American University in Washington, D.C., and a visiting senior member at Linacre College, University of Oxford. He also served as a visiting fellow at the Institute of Logic, Czech Academy of Science, throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s. His educational experiences include: Ph.D. Philosophy, American University MA Philosophy, University of Wyoming B.A. Political Science, Colorado College John's love for his friends was as deep as his passion for travel, dining, fine art, and excellent literature. His mother's early encouragement to explore the world of books led him to become incredibly well-read, with a vast library of the greatest books on earth. This love for literature was just one facet of his rich and diverse personality. For over thirty years, John maintained a strong friendship with his neighbors. He was known to be kind, supportive, and interested in those who lived around him. He loved walking his dog Oxford, a neighborhood favorite and was always happy to stop and chat. His presence in the neighborhood will surely be missed. He is survived by his sister, Dr. Carole Ricotta. He was predeceased by his father, Alexander “Babe” Shosky, brother Donald Shosky (Shirley), sister Deborah “Debbie” (Shosky) Billings (Dan), Dr. Frank J. Ricotta Sr. (brother-in-law), and his mother Barbara Shosky. He is also survived by two lifelong friends, David Quayle and Mark Carmel, who will forever cherish the memories they shared with him.

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John Shosky

November 1, 1955 - May 6, 2024