John Hardy Neblett

NEBLETT, John Hardy, of Richmond, Virginia, passed away on April 25, 2023, at age 94.

John was born in Lunenburg County, Virginia on April 22, 1929 to Clarence and Sally Neblett. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Neb; his sister, Sally; and his wife of 40 years, the love of his life, Roberta Cohen Neblett. He is survived by his stepsons, Jack (Bari) Cohen and Eric Cohen; his grandchildren, Jordan (Kyle) Mears, Aaron Cohen, Jenna Cohen and Jaymie Cohen; his sons, John (Mary Beth) Neblett Jr. and Tommy (Diane) Neblett; and his grandchildren, Katie and Jamie Neblett.

John attended Virginia Tech and earned a degree in engineering. He spent his career in operations research within various agencies in the federal government. After retirement, he lectured for several years at the University of Richmond's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute on his experiences in the Cold War. He went on to compile the content of those lectures into multiple extensive reports that he shared with family and friends.

Beyond academia, John was an experienced astrologer, an interest he shared with his youngest granddaughters. He was also a member of the Jewish Community Center's Men's Club. More than anything, John loved his wife Roberta. They were best friends and true soulmates. Together, they enjoyed opera, gardening, theater, family and community outreach. They were both adored by their grandchildren. John will be deeply missed.

A graveside service was held on Friday, April 28, 2023 at B'nai Shalom Greenwood Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to Keneseth Beth Israel or a charity of your choice.