John Charles Harmon

Born and raised in White Plains, New York, John was an extraordinary musician described by his fellow band member as “a monster bassist, incredibly versatile.” He played in various bands throughout his life, including the rock band Lotus and most recently, his jazz band Cookbook. His passion for music was matched only by his love for gardening. He had a special talent for growing a wide variety of hot peppers; the garden was a source of great pride.

An electrician by trade, John was always available for family and friends seeking advice or a helping hand with electrical projects.

John’s sense of humor was not for everyone, but those who knew him well cherished his wit and sharp tongue. He was an avid sports fan, who, of late, could always be found in his favorite recliner rooting for the New York Yankees or the Dallas Cowboys. He thrived in solving the New York Times crossword puzzle every day, enjoying the challenge and stimulation, and lamenting the puzzles that proved “too easy.”

John leaves behind his devoted life-partner Barbara Manning, with whom he shared 34 years of loving companionship. He is survived by his beloved daughter, Katy Harmon-White, her husband, Greg White, and his 2.5 year-old grandson, Gracen, who brought him immeasurable joy. He is also survived by Barbara’s daughter, Christina Stephens and her husband, George Stephens; and Barbara’s son, Christer Manning and his wife, Bilgin Manning. John is already missed by his and Barbara’s exuberant rescue dog, Gretchen, who was a constant source of comfort and camaraderie.

Rest in peace, John. Your memory will live on through your music, the hot peppers you grew, and the love you shared with your family and your friends.

At his request, John will be cremated and there will be no service. If you would like to make a donation in his memory, these were John’s favorite charities:

BestFriends.org

https://support.bestfriends.org/site/SPageServer/?pagename=memorial_gift

Wounded Warrior Project

https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/default.aspx?tsid=10043

Audubon Society

https://act.audubon.org/a/donate-ctl-mon-upsl?ms=digital-fund-web-website_nas-footer-donate&_gl=1*1qclono*_ga*MjExMjgwOTc5OS4xNjgxOTg0NDMx*_ga_X2XNL2MWTT*MTY4MTk4NDQzMS4xLjEuMTY4MTk4NDY0Ni42MC4wLjA.

North Shore Animal League

https://secure3.convio.net/nsala/site/Donation2?idb=386178681&6662.donation=form1&df_id=6662&s_src=sanky_ad_adwords&s_subsrc=brand_local&gclid=Cj0KCQjwxYOiBhC9ARIsANiEIfaJxLmCE6RLjcIRrMmY2S2aSledAGkJfOLw9CQ84m3GEZfpaMfABOYaAnWiEALw_wcB