John Gleason, beloved husband, father, Pop, brother, and friend; passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, surrounded by those who loved him most. He was 78.
Born in Teaneck, New Jersey, John built a life rooted in love, laughter, and unwavering generosity. He raised his family in Rye, New York, where he became a fixture in his daughters’ lives — whether driving them to dance classes, chaperoning field trips, going to concerts or tending to his beautiful home garden. His devotion to family was the center of everything he did.
Professionally, John spent many years in Sales, specializing in a product close to everyone’s heart — pasta. But his passions reached far beyond work. He was a music lover through and through, ensuring there was always a soundtrack playing in the background — no matter where he was. And if it were baseball season, you could count on him watching or tracking every single Yankees game, faithfully penciled into his planner.
John was a man who lived and loved with an open heart. He did for others without ever expecting anything in return. With his sharp wit, warm smile, and kind soul, John had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and loved. Quite simply, he was the kind of person the world needs more of.
He was a true warrior — bravely and quietly fighting a 17-year health battle without complaint, never losing his spirit, his sense of humor, or his strength. His resilience continues to inspire all who knew him.
John is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, Maxine; his loving daughters, Alexis (Chris) Milo and Corrie (Will) Linder; and his cherished grandchildren, Dante, Rocco, Alessia, and Brennan, who were the absolute light of his life. He also leaves behind his sisters, Lynda (Norman) Sanson and Jill (Anthony, 2021) Bonfiglio; his amazing brothers-in law and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephew, all his cousins, his cherished friends who were like family and every person who knew and loved him.
He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Evelyn Gleason; and his beloved mother-in-law, Marge Dreckmann.
Johns' memorial services will be shared with friends and family at a later date.
Thank you to his incredible doctors who never gave up on John. Because of you, we had him for 17 extra years.
John Gleason was, in every sense, a good man. Honest. Loving. Generous. Dedicated. Forgiving. If you were lucky enough to know him, you were lucky enough.
