Jon A. Sertway

Jon A. Sertway obituary, Woodbury Heights, NJ

Jon A. Sertway

Jon Sertway Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Smith Funeral Home - Mantua on Mar. 20, 2026.
Jon A. Sertway, 80, of Woodbury Heights, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, at Cooper Medical Center in Camden, New Jersey.

Born in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, to the late Albert Sertway and Eleanor (née St. Clair), Jon graduated from Canon-McMillan High School in 1964. He served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, including service aboard the USS Stone County (LST-1141).

Jon married Elaine Salkeld on February 12, 1971, and together they raised their family and built a life that reflected his deep loyalty and unwavering dedication.

Above all, Jon will be remembered as an incredible father, a devoted husband, and a genuinely kind and loving person. He was steady and dependable; someone others could always count on. A man of few words, he spoke with intention, and when he did, his words carried weight. He had a great sense of humor, loved to laugh, and was known for making others laugh as well.

Jon was retired and enjoyed the simple things in life, especially reading and spending time with his family and close friends. He was intentional in how he lived and in the relationships he kept. He had a passion for cars, especially his hot rod, and enjoyed working on them. He was a regular with the Lugg Nuttzz and the Diner Rider's Group, where he spent time with friends who shared his interest in cars and good conversation.

After the passing of his wife, Elaine, Jon continued attending Richwood Methodist Church, staying connected to a place that had meant so much to her. There, he formed friendships and enjoyed being part of the church community.

He was a brother of Summit Lodge No. 312 and a member of the Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, where he was recognized for 50 years of membership in 2023. He was also a member of the Crescent Shriners.

He is survived by his daughter, Ellison S. Bailis and her longtime partner, Jason Butcher; his son, Andrew J. Sertway; his grandchildren, Austin, Julian, and Emilia Sertway, and Chloe Petroskey; his sister-in-law, Ann Akers and her husband, Rodger; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. He was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Suellen Springer and her husband, Francis.

Service and celebration details are being planned and will be announced at a later date.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.smithfhmantua.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Jon's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Jon Sertway's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Jon Sertway's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?