John R. Sopp, a lifelong resident of Kingston, Pennsylvania, passed away on November 14, 2025, after a brief but valiant struggle with cancer. He was 74 years old. Born on April 15, 1951, John was the son of the late John J. and Anne Sopp. His dedication to his hometown and community was evident throughout his life.
John graduated from Wyoming Valley West High School in the Class of 1969 and later earned a degree in Economics from Wilkes University. Over the years, he built a distinguished career, notably as a pension fund manager for the Don Williamson Agency. Prior to that role, he spent over 30 years with General Foods, Maxwell House, and the Kraft Division as a Regional Sales Manager. Colleagues respected him for his leadership and strong work ethic, as well as for genuinely caring about the people he worked with.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, John’s commitment to community service stood out. He served on the Executive Board of the Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority and was a former member and past president of Kingston Council. His involvement with the Shade Tree Commission and the Kingston Historical Society further reflected his belief in giving back to the community that shaped him.
John is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Carol Sopp, and their four daughters: Johnyne (Rick) Hoyes, Keera (Bill) Tabor, Jill (Jonathan) Seitzinger, and Karin (Brandon) Ulitchney. His family was the pride of his life, and he was a cherished grandfather, known as Grampy, to Ricky and Rylie Hoyes; Keerstyn and Brynlee Tabor; Nathan Sopp; and Luna and Apollo Ulitchney. They brought immeasurable joy and laughter into his life.
A passionate music lover, John enjoyed attending concerts with family and friends. In his younger years, he played in several local bands, creating lasting memories through music. He also cherished annual trips to the beach, where he made some of his happiest memories with his family. At home, he took great pride in being the family’s head chef, particularly during holiday traditions of making ravioli, meatballs, and sauce, which will remain a legacy of love and togetherness.
John’s kindness, presence, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by those who knew him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 11:30 AM at St. Nicholas-St. Mary Parish, located at 226 S. Washington Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701. Interment will take place at St. Nicholas Cemetery in Shavertown. Attendees are asked to go directly to the church on the day of the Mass.
A visitation for family and friends is scheduled for Wednesday, December 17, 2025, from 4 PM to 7 PM at the Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, located at 89 Park Avenue, Wilkes-Barre. In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to St. Nicholas-St. Mary Parish at the same address.
Condolences can be sent by visiting John’s obituary online at www.ngjfuneral.com.
