KANE - John L. Mallery, 91, of Route 155 went to be with his Heavenly Father on Sunday (Dec. 14, 2025) at Sena Kean Manor in Smethport.
John was born July 9, 1934, in Chenango Bridge, N.Y., a son of Margaret and Edgar Mallery. On Dec. 4, 1955, in Hancock, N.Y., he married his high school sweetheart, Jean E. Wormuth Mallery, who preceded him in death. They shared 57 years of marriage. On Sept. 23, 2014, he married the Rev. Deborah Smith, who survives.
In addition to his wife, Debbie, John is survived by two sons, Michael T. (Crystal) Mallery and Javan A. (Francine) Mallery; two daughters, Elizabeth M. (Sonnie) Brockwell and Margaret I. Mallery; daughter-in-law Tina L Mallery (Paul) and chosen daughter, Jamie L. McKenzie.
He was the proud grandfather of 13 grandchildren, Michael (Christina), Alixandra, Paul (Mia), John (Rachel), Philip, Alexis, Ashlyn (Micah), Margaret, Anna (James), Javan II, Andrew (Carisa), Kathryn, Chase and Levi; 16 great-grandchildren, Brayden, Baileigh, Myrin, Kaileigh, Preston, Lexi, Kaden, Gracie, Kenzi, Jaxon, Raymond, Maison, Micah Jr, Addison, Rowan and River; and one great-great-granddaughter, Cyra.
John is also survived by his sister, June Mallery Flickinger, along with many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his first wife, Jean, he was preceded in death by his sons John A. Mallery and Paul E. Mallery; his parents; and his siblings Robert, Margaret, Mary and Esther.
John was a man who loved the Lord with all his heart and lived his faith daily through service to others. His life was marked by generosity, humility and devotion. His kindness, gentle spirit and unforgettable smile made everyone feel welcomed and valued. John loved Jesus deeply and dedicated his life to sharing His love with others. He faithfully served in church communities throughout his life, finding great joy in worship and music. John loved attending church and sang in the church choir, as well as on gospel radio in Memphis. He served as a deacon in the Baptist Church in Hancock, was a longtime elder at Myrtle Gospel Tabernacle, and co-pastored at Faith Church of Charity. A passionate believer in missions, John strongly supported spreading the Gospel across all continents of the world.
A hardworking man to his core, John took great pride in honest labor. He spent his career in the hardwood industry, serving as vice president and later president of Mallery Lumber in Hancock and in Emporium. In these roles, he oversaw daily operations and mentored many along the way. His strong work ethic, leadership and integrity earned him the respect and admiration of all who worked with him.
John also believed deeply in giving back to his community. He served as president of the Mee Foundation and president of the Southwest Forest Association. A proud member of the Rotary Club, John embraced its mission of "Service Above Self" and worked tirelessly to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Friends will be received 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday (Dec. 20, 2025) at New Beginnings Assembly of God, 6756 Route 321, where funeral services will immediately follow with the Rev. Heather Glogau, pastor of New Beginnings Assembly of God, officiating. Burial will take place at Forest Lawn Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the
Alzheimer's Association.
John will be deeply missed and forever remembered. His love, faith and example will continue to live on in the generations he leaves behind.
Published by The Bradford Era from Dec. 16 to Dec. 24, 2025.