John Van Ness

John was born on February 1, 1948 in Nyack, NY to Helen and Chester Van Ness, one of their three children. He is predeceased by both parents, as well as, Edward Gray, Helen’s second husband and a great friend to John. John passed peacefully on May 30, 2024 with his brother at his side.

John is survived by his two siblings, Gail Watts of Wilmington,DE and Gregory (Brenda) Van Ness of Monroe, NY; five nephews, Richard, Steven (Mini) and Todd (Lori) Watts of Wilmington, DE, Jason (Nicole) Van Ness of Goshen, NY and Curtis (Noel) Van Ness of Milford, PA; ten great-nieces and nephews, Anthony (Chelsea), Matthew, Tracy, Charlie, Conner and Kelli Watts, and Aviana, Jace, Declan and Noah Van Ness; one great-great niece, Mila Watts, and one great-great nephew, Caleb Watts.

John lived the majority of his life in Stony Point, NY and worked as a custodian for the North Rockland School District for over 20 years before his retirement. He took great pride in keeping the school clean for the students.

John was an avid reader, his favorite topic being American history. John also loved poetry. In fact, he wrote and submitted a poem to the Poetry Nation’s National Amateur Poetry Competition. His poem was accepted for publishing. John was so proud of his accomplishment.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 11 am at the First United Methodist Church, 249 West Main Street, Stony Point, NY 10980. A private burial will be held at a later date.

Should you wish to donate in John’s memory, the family requests the donation be sent to the First United Methodist Church, PO Box 113, Stony Point, NY 10980.