John Weir Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Wiggin-Purdy-McCooey-Dion Funeral Home - Dover on Nov. 25, 2025.
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John Charles Weir
May 4, 1938 – November 17, 2025
Age 87
John Charles Weir, known for his bold personality, sharp wit, and love of life, passed peacefully in his sleep on November 17, 2025, at the age of 87. True to his irrepressible sense of humor, he often joked, "I'll die at the age of 90 when I'm shot by a jealous husband," though in the end, he did not get his wish. His life was instead marked by laughter, adventure, and a legacy of unforgettable stories shared with friends and loved ones.
Born on May 4, 1938, to Paul Virgil Weir and Margaret Catherine Griebling in Mansfield, Ohio, John graduated from Mansfield High School in 1956. He attended DePauw University and later earned his degree from Ashland College. During his time at DePauw, he was a proud member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He also served in the Marine Corps Reserve, demonstrating an early commitment to service and discipline.
John was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Jeanne Hughes Weir, and his sister, Paula Powell.
John's career in the furniture industry spanned decades and took him across the country. In 1970, he moved to Syracuse, New York, to work with Dixie Furniture, followed by positions with Bassett and Sumter Furniture. Over the years, he also worked with World Imports, Corsicana Mattress, and Hughes. From 1968 to 2018, John was out on his "milk run," traveling tirelessly and forming lifelong friendships along the way. Both of his sons, John and Keith, proudly followed him into the furniture business, continuing the family legacy.
John's zest for life was unmistakable. He enjoyed a good drink, a sharp joke, and, as he often said, "If you play with the bull, you get the horns." An animal lover, he was preceded in death by his beloved pets Buck, Apollo, Easter, and Sammy, and is survived by his loyal companion, Francis. He had a deep appreciation for history, particularly U.S. history, and may have watched every World War II documentary ever made.
John had an extraordinary capacity for enjoying life's simple pleasures. He could house a chicken parmesan dinner in one sitting, take a nap, and order it again. While he loved hearty meals, he was not a fan of beans, onions in his salad, or mushrooms, and if exposed to them, he could become cantankerous. Waffle House breakfasts held a special place in John's heart. He delighted in every visit and often told the waitress, "That was so good, let's do it again."
He was a devoted fan of riding lawn mowers. In his retirement at Common Good Farm in Lee, New Hampshire, he maintained the most pristine lawn in all of New England.
His children's childhood friends recall countless unforgettable moments at Country Lane in Baldwinsville, New York, from yard antics to his larger-than-life personality, illustrating the warmth, humor, and generosity that made him a second parent and mentor to so many.
Above all, John was a devoted family man. He met Jeanne Hughes at a party, famously holding her upside down by her ankles, a playful introduction that captured his mischievous sense of humor. From that moment on, they shared a life filled with laughter, partnership, and enduring love. Jeanne cared for John with devotion through the years, and when the roles reversed, John personally provided all the nursing care for her as she battled Parkinson's disease. This heroic effort was a testament to his deep love, profound respect, and unwavering commitment to his wife.
John is survived by his children, John and Sue Weir of Skaneateles, New York, Linda Weir and Brian DeMuth of Ellicott City, Maryland, and Keith and J'aime Weir of Lee, New Hampshire. He was also the proud grandfather of four extraordinary grandchildren, all carrying his last name: Oliver, Miller, Ian, and Tatum, who carry forward his legacy of humor, warmth, and love.
A private memorial will be held to celebrate John's remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the New Hampshire SPCA, honoring his deep love of animals.