John R. Whitebread, age 74, of Berwick went home with the Lord on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, surrounded by his family.
Born in Berwick on September 11, 1950, he was a son of the late Raymond E. and Shirley J. (Travelpiece) Whitebread. He was a graduate of Berwick High School and continued his education at Bloomsburg State College where he earned a Bachelor of Education Degree. For 15 years, he taught high school English for Council Rock School District, where he also led the drama club. Later, he became a Commissioned Youth Minister for the United Church of Christ. He was assigned to several churches throughout the years, in Pennsylvania and Indiana. Upon returning to the area, John played the organ for several local churches, including St James Lutheran Church, Zenith. In addition to Sunday services, he also played for weddings, funerals and other events.
John enjoyed seeing new places and was especially proud to have had the opportunity to visit Isreal. He particularly liked gardening and tending his flowers. No matter where he was, his loyal companion “Digger” was always at his side.
He will be greatly missed by his sisters, Gwen Fetterman, Montrose, PA; Melanie Parrish and husband Aaron, Hobbie; brother, Craig Whitebread and wife Georgene, Hobbie; nieces and nephews, Amber Krause (Kevin); Shawn Whitebread (Kerry); Wendy Fetterman; Megan Oleniacz (Matthew); Chad Garber; and many great nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Donald Fetterman and niece, Jennifer Fetterman Garber.
Family will receive friends from 10:00 am to 11:00am on March 1, 2025, at St. James Lutheran Church, 1488 Zenith Rd, Nescopeck, immediately followed by a memorial service with his pastor, Reverend Oliver Brown officiating. Private burial will take place at the convenience of the family.
Memorial contributions are suggested to St. James Lutheran Church, Nescopeck.
Online messages of comfort for his family may be sent to condolences@HellerFuneralHomeLLC.com.