John Schott Schott Dryden
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John Schott Dryden of Dallas, Texas took wing on the morning of August 24th, 2021 in the presence of his loving wife. John was born August 28th, 1945 in Sherman, Texas to John Jacob Dryden and Mary Louise n?e Schott.
John graduated from Louisiana State University and later attended Southern Methodist University, where he received his MBA. John enlisted in the US Marine Corps (Res.), where he served from 1966-1972. A lifelong entrepreneur, he entered the real estate industry in 1971, ultimately founding the Dryden Company in 1979 and building a commercial properties portfolio spanning greater Dallas. A fourth generation Texan, John took great pride in overseeing and restoring the Dryden family ranch, which his great-grandfather established in 1885.
John was the consummate gentleman, bringing kindness, generosity, and joy to the countless people he touched everyday - be they friend or stranger. His unwavering integrity, ever-present humor, and consistent guidance made him a great friend and mentor; his strategic thinking, thoughtful insights, and analytical mind made him a great businessman and leader.
John had a passion for history, culture, and travel - both across the globe and especially for his cherished state of Texas - and for his genealogy, but his greatest love was for family. John was a faithful son, an adoring husband, a devoted father, and a doting grandfather.
John is survived by Judy, his loving and dedicated wife of 49 years, with whom he built an extraordinary life, traveled the world, and raised his beloved children. John is also survived by his son Searcy of New York City (wife Lesley and children Madeline and John), and his daughter Suzanna Jensen of Dallas (husband Erik and children Adam and Zachary). He is likewise survived by his brother Robert of Dallas (wife Patricia), one nephew, and five nieces. He is preceded in death by his sister Mary Ann Shapiro and her son.
A funeral mass will be held in John's honor at Christ the King Catholic Church in Dallas on September 10th at 10:00 AM, with burial to follow at Sparkman Hillcrest Cemetery.
John strongly believed that education creates opportunity. Gifts in honor of John's life may be sent to the John S. Dryden Memorial Fund at Cristo Rey Dallas 9701 San Leon Ave, Dallas, TX 75217, where John was a loyal supporter and dedicated mentor.