John B. Neighbor

John B. Neighbor, 67, of Dover, formerly of Dennison, died Friday, November 23, 2012 at Community Hospice House in New Philadelphia after a lengthy battle with cancer. Born September 13, 1945 in San Francisco, California, he was the son of Jeanne F. (Hayes) Neighbor of Dennison and the late Wilbur S. Neighbor.

John grew up in Dennison and was a graduate of Dennison H.S. in 1963. He then earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from Heidelberg College in 1967 and Masters of School Administration from Akron University in 1972. He began his 38 year career in education as a 7th grade math teacher and coach of all junior high sports, followed by a span of years in which he held many positions within the public school system as a teacher, coach and principal until his retirement from Claymont City Schools where he had served as their Superintendent. Of his many professional accomplishments, he drew the most gratification from having overseen the planning and building of the new high school at Claymont. In retirement, he was a commissioner of the East Central Ohio League for the past several years until his health prevented him from continuing in the post.

John was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend who was very proud of his family, especially that all of his children and stepchildren obtained their college degrees. He deeply enjoyed the time that he spent with his family and loved traveling with them. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Joan L. (Albaugh) Neighbor whom he married on April 3, 1998; sons, Capt. Bruce (Kristin) Neighbor of Columbus, Ohio, Dr. Gregory Neighbor of New York, New York and Brian (Maria) Neighbor of Columbus, Ohio; stepchildren, Todd Blind of Columbus, Ohio, Tiffany Myers of Dover and Sara (Benjamin) Howard of Miami, Florida; grandchildren, Zane Neighbor, Zach Neighbor, Gabby Bricker, Jett Neighbor, Christopher Myers and Seth Best; sister, Ruth Ann (Royce) Beaverson of Bowling Green, Ohio; sister-in-law, Jan Cargnel of Dover; brother-in-law, John Albaugh of Circleville; several nieces and nephews; and a host of dear friends.

In keeping with John’s wishes, a graveside service, officiated by Rev. Mark Unrue and Superintendent Bob Fogler, is planned at Union Cemetery in Uhrichsville on Wednesday, November 28, at 11:00 a.m. without a prior public visitation. Those wishing to honor John’s memory are encouraged to do so to Community Hospice, 716 Commercial Ave. S.W., New Philadelphia, OH 44663, in lieu of flowers.