With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John Espy Burnsworth on November 25, 2025, at his home in Saint Augustine, Florida, after a valiant battle with multiple cancers.
John was born in Clearfield, Pennsylvania on May 14, 1945, and grew up in New Brighton, Pennsylvania with his parents John and Martha Burnsworth. He graduated high school from New Brighton High in 1963 and later from Geneva College in 1967. John studied history at Geneva and carried his love for the subject throughout his life, often impressing his friends and family with historical details. John was also a four year starter on the football team and member of various organizations. He served 15 years in the Army National Guard, earning the rank of Captain.
After college, John began his business career in the steel industry starting as a metallurgist for Republic Steel in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania. He eventually retired as President of Florida Wire and Cable in Jacksonville, Florida. Even after retirement, John’s business acumen was well respected as he spent many additional years in consulting.
John shared his lifelong passion for sports with Judy, his wife of 50 years. John was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Jacksonville Jaguars. He and Judy enjoyed their time on tennis courts, pickleball courts, and golf courses, and met many, many friends along the way. John also loved to travel the world. Together, he and Judy explored six of the seven continents.
John was a dedicated “Pap-pap” to his grandchildren, and loved spending as much time as possible with them. John taught each of them to swim, and taught the oldest how to drive. Every Christmas the grandchildren looked forward to their “Pap-pap passes,” a gift of a full day with John to do anything of their choosing.
John is survived by his loving wife, Judy; and his children, Tammi Noon and Bradley Burnsworth; grandchildren, Taylor Noon, Ashley Noon, and Benjamin Burnsworth; brother, Rhett Burnsworth; and sister, Beth (Dave) Lozier.
The funeral will be held at Ponte Vedra Valley Funeral Home on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at 11 am.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a contribution to the National Brain Tumor Society or Glioblastoma Research Organization in John’s name.
