John W. Newton

John W. Newton

SHINGLEHOUSE, Pa.---John William Newton, 51, beloved son, brother, uncle and friend, of 319 E. Honeoye St., Shinglehouse PA, passed away early Friday morning, October 15, 2021, from complications of Covid. He is survived by his mother, Janice Osborn; his brothers, Charles Scott Newton ( Sally) and Clyde Newton (Gerri); nieces, Lisa Newton ( Travis Colby), Jennifer Newton, Laya Phillips, Eva Colby, and Samantha Newton. He was preceded in death by his father, Francis Charles Newton; his stepfather, Elbert “Bert” Osborn; and his nephew, Francis Newton.


John was a 1988 graduate of Oswayo Valley High School in Shinglehouse. He served his country for four years in the US Air Force, as a security specialist. He served overseas in Germany as part of Operation Desert Shield and Storm. He distinguished himself, receiving numerous awards including Small Arms Expert Marksmanship ribbon, National Defense Service medal, AF Overseas Service Long Tour ribbon, AF Training ribbon and AF Outstanding Unit Award.


Following his military service, John spent many years employed as a security guard, most recently as Security Supervisor at the Seneca Hotel and Casino in Salamanca, NY. Prior to that, he provided security for Adelphia Communications of Coudersport. He was well known for his effectiveness and caring towards everyone.


John was active in numerous community service organizations for many years. He was the past commander (two times) of the American Legion Post #530, in which he was active for over 20 years. He was a member of the Potter County Honor Guard. For several years he played Santa Claus at the Legion's children's Christmas parties. He was a member and past master of the Sharon Lodge #598 FA&M, Shinglehouse. He was also involved with the Ismalia Shriner's of Buffalo NY. He especially enjoyed helping with the children's circus.


John was a Christian who attended the First Baptist Church of Shinglehouse. His hobbies included hand painting miniature Civil War soldiers and depicting them in battlefield scenes. He spoke to groups sharing his knowledge about the Civil War and other US history topics. John enjoyed vacationing at Gettysburg National Park. He was an avid fisherman. Most of all, John enjoyed spending time with his family and many friends.


Family and friends may call from 10am to 11am on Thursday, October 28, 2021, at the Shinglehouse American Post 530, Rt 44 South, Shinglehouse, where a celebration of life will follow at 11am with the Rev. Russell J. Horning, of Shinglehouse, officiating. Burial with full military honors accorded by the Potter County Honor Guard will be held in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Shinglehouse, immediately following the celebration of life.


Members of Sharon Lodge #598 F & AM, will conduct a Masonic memorial service at the Legion on Thursday.


In lieu flowers, memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church, PO Box 68, Shinglehouse, PA 16748 or to the Shinglehouse American Legion Post 530, 1364 RT 44S. Shinglehouse, PA 16748.


John’s family has entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse. To express condolences or share a fond memory of John, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Facebook page.