Obituary of John B. Flavin

John B. Flavin passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home in Easton, Pennsylvania, on Thursday, June 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He shared 79 years of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories with family and friends.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Madeline and David Flavin, John was one of two children. He graduated from James Madison High School, Class of 1964, before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable discharge, John began a long and dedicated career with AT&T. Over 45 years, he worked throughout Manhattan and New Jersey as a Communications Technician before retiring in 2011. John and his beloved wife, Maria, raised their family in Parsippany, New Jersey. While he loved raising his children there, he remained a proud Brooklyn native at heart.

A devoted veteran, John served as both a member and past commander of VFW Post #10184 and American Legion Post #249 in Parsippany. If you ever purchased a VFW Buddy Poppy in town, there is a good chance it came from John. He was also an incredibly active man who was always on the move—often literally. He participated in numerous 5K races, including the Cherry Blossom Run and the Lincoln Tunnel Challenge. When he wasn’t running, he could often be found riding his bicycle or even his unicycle. His energy and enthusiasm for life were truly remarkable.

John passed on his love of the Mets and the Jets to his children. He had an incredible sense of humor and a unique ability to make anyone laugh. His family will forever miss his spontaneous spirit, generous heart, and his famous habit of always saying “yes” whenever someone he loved asked for something. They were truly blessed to have him in their lives.

Although his family is deeply saddened by his passing, they find comfort in knowing he has been reunited with his parents; his best friend, Gordon McClennan; and his beloved pets, Brenna and Tink.

John’s legacy will live on in the hearts of his loving family, including his beloved wife, Maria; his cherished children, Dawn Perez, Lori Abbate (Corey), Thomas Flavin (Jenn), Sean Flavin (Holly), and Caitlin Growney (Kevin); his treasured grandchildren, Joseph, Tristen, Elliot, Caden, Callum, Cameron, Jack, and one on the way; his sister, Maureen Douglas; his nephews, Kevin and Anthony (Ruthanne); his great-nieces, Amanda and Krystal, whom he loved entertaining with riddles; and many dear friends.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, 15 Myers Avenue, Denville, New Jersey 07834. Interment will immediately follow at Denville Cemetery in Denville, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in John’s memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. Family and friends are invited to share a favorite memory, leave a condolence, or make a gesture in honor of John as we continue to celebrate his life and keep his light shining in our hearts.