John Northup Obituary
John Joseph Northup, born April 26, 1954, at Muhlenberg Hospital in Plainfield, NJ, to Harold and Matilda B. Peter Northup of South Plainfield, NJ, returned home to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, November 9, 2025.
John was the youngest of six children. As a child, he and his family moved to Dunellen, NJ, where he was raised and graduated from the local school system in 1973.
He enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War — an uneasy and unpopular time to serve. John was extremely proud of his military service, and if you knew him, you knew he always had a story to share about his experiences.
Following his military service, John went on to co-found Torus, a millwrighting and fabrication company, with his longtime friend Miles. After many successful years in business, he joined Celgene Corporation as Facilities Foreman, overseeing building operations in Warren Township, NJ. John retired in 2010 after a wonderful career where he was loved and respected by many coworkers and friends.
In 2011, John retired to Emporia, VA, where he enjoyed a slower-paced life and the peace of rural living. He was a fighter until the very end, courageously battling cancer for over two years before passing away at home, surrounded by his loving family.
John is survived by his son Matthew Northup of Martinsville, NJ; his wife Karen of Emporia, VA; sons Michael Durham of Emporia, VA, and Brian Durham of Pennsylvania; and countless friends who have become family over the years.
Visitation will be held at 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, November 12 at Owen Funeral Home, 303 S. Halifax Rd, Jarratt, Virginia where the funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, November 13. Interment will follow at Aberdour Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Jarratt, Virginia.
A celebration of John’s life will be announced at a later date in New Jersey for friends and family who are unable to attend, organized by his son, Matthew Northup.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Aberdour Presbyterian Church, 702 Allen Rd, Jarratt, Virginia 23867.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
303 S. Halifax Rd P.O. Box 475, Jarratt, VA 23867
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