John R. Sopp, a respected member of the Kingston community, passed away on November 14, 2025, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. He was 74 years old. Born on April 15, 1951, in Kingston, he was the son of the late John J. and Anne Sopp.
A lifelong resident of Kingston, John graduated from Wyoming Valley West High School in 1969. He furthered his education at Wilkes University, where he earned a degree in Economics. John’s professional journey included significant roles, most notably as a pension fund manager for the Don Williamson Agency before his retirement. His earlier career spanned over three decades at General Foods, Maxwell House, and the Kraft Division, where he served as a Regional Sales Manager. Colleagues admired him for his strong leadership and work ethic, as well as his genuine care for those he worked with.
Community Engagement and Family Legacy
John was deeply committed to his community, serving on the Executive Board of the Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority. He also held positions as a former member and past president of Kingston Council, and contributed to the Shade Tree Commission and the Kingston Historical Society. His involvement demonstrated his belief in giving back to the community that shaped him.
In his personal life, John was a devoted family man. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Carol Sopp (née Everett), and their daughters: Johnyne (Rick) Hoyes, Keera (Bill) Tabor, Jill (Jonathan) Seitzinger, and Karin (Brandon) Ulitchney. His grandchildren, Ricky and Rylie Hoyes; Keerstyn and Brynlee Tabor; Nathan Sopp; and Luna and Apollo Ulitchney, were the pride of his life and brought him immense joy and fulfillment.
John’s brother, Mark Sopp of Kingston, and sisters-in-law Kathy (Tim) Mozdian and Carol Everett, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, also survive him. Known for his love of music, John enjoyed attending concerts with family and friends. He played in several local bands during his youth and cherished annual beach trips that created lasting memories.
A Celebration of Life
At home, John embraced his role as the family’s head chef, especially during the holiday tradition of making ravioli, meatballs, and sauce. This legacy of love and togetherness will be remembered by all who knew him.
John’s kindness, presence, and unwavering love for his family will be deeply missed. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on December 18, 2025, at 11:30 am in St. Nicholas-St. Mary Parish, located at 226 S. Washington Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701. Interment will follow at St. Nicholas Cemetery in Shavertown. Attendees are requested to go directly to the church on the day of the service.
A visitation for family and friends will take place on December 17, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Nat Gawlas Jordan Funeral Home, situated at 89 Park Avenue, Wilkes-Barre.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s memory to St. Nicholas-St. Mary Parish at the address mentioned above. Those wishing to express their condolences can visit John’s obituary at www.ngjfuneral.com.