John E. Titus Obituary, Mid-Continent Railway Museum — John E. Titus, a beloved volunteer and longtime member of the Mid-Continent Railway Museum, passed away on August 17, 2026, surrounded by friends and family. His death was shared by the museum, which expressed deep gratitude to his family for sharing John with the organization and its members over the years.
Titus was remembered as an incredible friend, mentor, and crewmate who became a cherished member of the Mid-Continent family. His dedication to the museum was reflected in the many roles he took on throughout his years of service, including guided tours, conductor and trainman duties, restoration projects, dining operations, public events, train shows, and grant work.
His connection with the museum began many years ago after he rode aboard the Snow Train at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum. He later joined the organization and began working as a trainman under Johnny Winter. Although his work schedule and travels across the country sometimes limited the amount of time he could spend volunteering, he remained committed to the museum and maintained the required service days to remain qualified as a trainman.
When his schedule eventually changed, Titus became more deeply involved in museum activities. His passion for history and railroad operations was evident in his work and his continued dedication to the organization. Museum members also remembered his calm approach, generosity, and willingness to contribute wherever he was needed.
Earlier this year, Titus was especially honored to become the first person to ride the East Jordan and Southern No. 2 following its completed restoration. In a moment that reflected his care for the museum’s restoration work, he removed his shoes and rode in his socks so he would not get the newly restored car dirty.
Titus was also looking forward to running for a position as a museum director in the fall. The museum said it believed he would have been an outstanding leader, noting that his commitment to the organization was matched by his pride in being part of it. He had a big heart and was deeply proud of the friendships and experiences he shared with fellow members.
In a conversation on the Sunday before his passing, Titus wanted museum members to know how much he loved them and how proud he was to have been their friend and worked alongside them. He also shared that he was at peace and ready for his next journey. Fellow member Colton Taylor remembered Titus as a dear friend, saying that the only thing larger than him was his heart and expressing how deeply he would be missed.
John E. Titus leaves behind a legacy of service, friendship, mentorship, and devotion to railroad history and the Mid-Continent Railway Museum. His years of volunteer work and the relationships he formed with fellow members will remain part of the museum community’s memories. The thoughts and condolences of those who knew him are with his family, friends, and the many members of the Mid-Continent family mourning his passing.