John P. DeFeo

John Peter DeFeo, 90, passed away on Monday, December 15, 2025, in Hopewell, New Jersey.
Born and raised in Trenton, NJ, John was a kind and thoughtful man and a loyal friend to many. His parents owned a local music store, which helped shape his lifelong passion for music. Following his high school graduation, John proudly joined the United States Army, where he attended the Naval School of Music and excelled as a saxophonist.
After completing his military service, John returned to his studies and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business from Rider University. He went on to serve as the Director of the Department of Higher Education for the State of New Jersey, a role through which he touched countless lives with his dedication and integrity.
As we gather to celebrate John's life and legacy, we invite all who knew and loved him to remember his warmth, his love of music, and the many lives he impacted throughout his remarkable journey.
John was predeceased by his parents, John and Mary DeFeo; and his brother, Robert DeFeo. He is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, Joan DeFeo; his daughters, Doreen Esposito and her former spouse, Mark Esposito, and MaryLynn Allred and her husband, Steven; and his cherished grandchildren, Kristin Esposito, Jessica Esposito, Dylan Allred, and Morgan Allred.
A visitation will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish, Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 3816 East State Street Extension, Hamilton, NJ 08619. A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m.
Cremation services will be held privately.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Saul Colonial Home, 3795 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Square, NJ.