John Leighton Stanton

John Leighton Stanton obituary

John Leighton Stanton

John Stanton Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Smith Funeral Home - Mantua on Aug. 8, 2025.
John Leighton Stanton Jr., PhD age 80 of Mantua Twp., NJ passed away on his birthday, August 4, 2025. Born in Collingswood, NJ to the late John Leighton Stanton Sr., and Emma (nee Dahm), he graduated from Collingswood High School Class of 1963. He earned his undergraduate degree and doctorate degree from Syracuse University and was currently a Food Marketing Professor at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia. John was a well-known and highly respected expert in his field, who spoke frequently at business and academic conferences, and often provided expert witness testimony in food marketing. He was the author of over 20 books and often appeared on TV to talk about current food topics. He was in several Halls of Fame. Over the course of his storied life, he had extensive international travel to over 100 countries, and lived in Brazil, Africa, Germany, and Ireland. He touched many lives. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing golf and fishing, and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Carol (nee Neville); his daughter, Bridget Penberthy & her husband, Bill; his son, Robert Leighton Stanton & his wife, Megan; and six grandchildren, Will, Hannah, Charlotte, and John Penberthy, and Isla & LJ Stanton. John was predeceased by his brother, Robert Stanton.

Arrangements are currently private.

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August 20, 2025

Rona Campbell posted to the memorial.

August 17, 2025

James Norris posted to the memorial.

August 15, 2025

Dave Fusaro posted to the memorial.

Rona Campbell

August 20, 2025

With much joy, I flew out of Philly in late March this year and another wonderful time with Carol and John, international friends I met at a conference in Shanghai almost 20 years ago. We talked, laughed and sat in quiet reflection with each other, comfortable in our friendship and time together. Carol and John visited me in Scotland too during their time in Northern Ireland. The narrative of this connection now continues but differently and Carol and I will hold close the memories of the times the three of us were together. A special friendship and a wonderful man whose company and wisdom will remain with me.

James Norris

August 17, 2025

I so admired John and the work that he did. He was a St. Joe´s treasure. I am incredibly sorry for your loss, Carol. I hope that you and all of John´s family find comfort in the full life that he lived and the many people that he impacted.

Dave Fusaro

August 15, 2025

When I took over Food Processing magazine 22 years ago, John already was a monthly columnist for the magazine. I always enjoyed, and was educated by, his columns on food marketing, a subject he obviously loved. However, I recall he used a lot of explanation points. He will be missed. -Dave Fusaro

Debbie Flamini

August 13, 2025

Jackie was one of the most interesting people I´ve ever known, and he was great at telling stories! Nobody laughed harder at his jokes than he did! And though he was a highly intelligent man with much to share, he was interested in everyone around him. He´d really listen. We will miss his loud voice and presence. Carol was a wonderful wife and I am glad for the happiness he found with her. This is a picture of him talking to his God daughter,Mary Ellen a few years ago.

jeffrey mcclelland

August 12, 2025

John was a great man and I was honored to have worked with him when I was CEO at McAdams Richman & Ong and Melissa was our client. John was close with fellow St Joes board member Brian McAdams. I´m confident they´re sharing a toast on some cloud and looking down on us and saying "Cheers to all we knew and loved"!
My deepest condolences to John´s family, those who loved him and friends.
With Deep sadness and gratitude- Jeff McClelland, NY, NY

Brian Todd

August 9, 2025

So sorry to hear this. John was a good soul and I always enjoyed our get togethers and scotch tastings. Condolences to Carol and the entire family, as well as the many whose lives he touched.

Michael Siano.

August 8, 2025

John Stanton not only died on his birthday but it was also his feast day. August 4th is the feast day of Saint John Vianney.

Rev. Sr. Margaret Odeh, SHCJ.

August 8, 2025

With deep sadness, I share the passing of our dear friend, John. I was especially moved as I recalled his last message to me-an email reflecting on the importance of prayer and the quiet, constant work of our Guardian Angels.

Though I regret not having replied, I find comfort in knowing that John was spiritually prepared for his journey home. He received the Sacraments-confession and anointing-before his surgery, a grace that reflects his deep belief in the power and meaning of the sacraments.

John leaves behind not only cherished memories but also a great legacy in academia, particularly in the food industry. His contributions as a scholar and educator touched the lives of many, shaping both careers and the field itself.

He will be remembered for his sharp sense of humor, unwavering tenacity, and the kindness he showed to those around him. No matter the challenge, he met life with wit, resilience, and quiet strength.

I´m truly grateful our paths crossed. I trust that the angels he believed in have now led him into Paradise.

Rest in peace, John. Your life was a gift, and your legacy lives on.

Rev. Sr. Margaret Odeh, SHCJ.

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Sign John Stanton's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

August 20, 2025

Rona Campbell posted to the memorial.

August 17, 2025

James Norris posted to the memorial.

August 15, 2025

Dave Fusaro posted to the memorial.