John Peabody Martiniere Jr.

John Peabody Martiniere, Jr., known affectionately by many as Jock, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025 in Canton, Georgia at age 79 after a valiant battle with Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). Born in Rome, Georgia on June 26, 1946, to the late John Peabody Martiniere, Sr. and Helen Martiniere (née Williams), John was a beacon of intelligence, passion, and generosity throughout his remarkable life.
A proud alumnus of Darlington School, John graduated as valedictorian in 1964 before continuing his education at Vanderbilt University, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering. His academic excellence was matched by his active participation in Tau Beta Pi, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. John's commitment to his country was evident when he joined the United States Navy, where he was commissioned as an Ensign after completing Officer Candidate School. He served as a Naval Officer for five years, dedicating himself to the mastery of naval tactics and strategy.
Furthering his expertise, John obtained a Masters of Science in Environmental Engineering from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, becoming a vanguard in the field. His professional legacy included founding Haztech, Inc., a preeminent hazardous waste cleanup firm, and later, shaping Peachtree Environmental, LLC as a Principal. His work had a lasting impact on environmental safety and compliance, reflecting his deep-rooted dedication to preserving the planet for future generations.
John's zest for life was as immense as his professional achievements. His love for waterskiing began on Lake Allatoona and continued on Lake Lanier, where his grace on skis was unmatched. An all-around athlete, he played various sports with a competitive spirit that never waned. As President of the Lake Lanier Rowing Club and a Learn-to-Row instructor, he shared his passion for rowing, teaching many to appreciate the beauty and discipline of the sport.
Music filled John's soul, and he found joy in playing the piano, reading voraciously, fishing, and engaging in the strategic intricacies of bridge and board games. His sentimental nature was captured through the lens of his ever-present camcorder, memorializing countless cherished moments from social gatherings to his daughters' sporting events.
A loyal friend, John's generosity knew no bounds. His love language was expressed through thoughtful gifts and quality time spent with those he loved. Notably, he maintained lifelong relationships with friends from every chapter of his life, cherishing the bonds he formed from childhood through to his adulthood.
Above all, John was a devoted father and "Pop-Pop". He leaves behind a loving family, including his daughters, Liz Mingus and Meghan Martiniere, daughter-in-law Frances Walsh, and grandson Aidan Smith. His marriage to Junith Smitherman, spanning 18 years, blessed him with his beloved children. While his cherished cat, Miss Peabody, predeceased him, the memories they made continue to bring smiles to all who knew John.
John Peabody Martiniere, Jr. made an indelible mark on the hearts of his family, friends, and community, and his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. His memory will be treasured and his presence deeply missed.
On Saturday, January 3rd, 2026, there will be a public visitation at 10am, followed by a memorial service at 11am at Poole Funeral Home, 1970 Eagle Dr, Woodstock, GA 30189.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to one of the following organizations:
1. Lake Lanier Rowing Club - https://lakelanierrowing.sportngin.com/
2. Mission MSA - https://missionmsa.org/ To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John, please visit our floral store.