John Robert Glave Jr MMCS/ss USN(ret)

John Robert Glave Jr., MMCS/ss USN (ret.), a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 22, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on November 21, 1943, in Bayonne, New Jersey, John lived a life marked by service, dedication, and love. John was the beloved son of the late John R. Glave Sr., QMC/ss USN (ret.), and Winiferd Harris Glave. He spent his formative years in the picturesque town of DeRuyter, New York, where he graduated from DeRuyter High School in 1961. With a keen interest in education, he pursued further studies at the State University of New York at Buffalo before enlisting in the United States Navy. His commitment to his country was evident as he volunteered for Submarine Service, an area in which he excelled, graduating from the prestigious Naval Nuclear Power School in Bainbridge, Maryland, and the Naval Nuclear Power Prototype Training and S3G in West Milton, New York. John's illustrious military career spanned over two decades, from 1963 until his retirement in 1986. He was a highly respected Senior Chief, qualified in both diesel- and nuclear-powered submarines. His service included assignments on the USS Irex, USS Skipjack, USS James K. Polk, USS Bluefish, USS Daniel Boone, and USS Ray. John's shore duties were equally commendable, serving at the Naval Nuclear Power Prototype at S3G in West Milton, New York, and the Counseling and Assistance Center at the Charleston Naval Base, South Carolina. On April 5, 1963, John married the love of his life, Pamela Rowley, in Great Lakes, Illinois. Their union was a testament to enduring love and companionship, spanning 60 wonderful years. Together, they raised two sons, John R. Glave III (Sharon Glave) and Christopher Howard Glave, who were a source of immense pride and joy. After retiring from the Navy, John continued to make a difference in the world, first as a procedure writer at the Savannah River Site, and then by founding Plumtree Farm Cremation and Cemetery Service. His lifelong love of animals inspired him to provide caring and compassionate service to grieving pet owners, a testament to his gentle and nurturing spirit. John was a lifetime member of the United States Submarine Veterans Inc., where he found camaraderie and kinship with those who shared his passion for the sea. In his leisure time, he delighted in caring for his many pets and indulging in his hobbies, which included a meticulously curated model railroad and crane collection. John is survived by his devoted wife, Pamela; his sons, John R. Glave III and Christopher Howard Glave; his brothers, Steven Glave (Bonnie Snow) and Jeffery Lynn Glave (Christine Glave); three cherished grandchildren, Stephanie Cocchiarella, Joshua Cocchiarella, and Zachary Robert Glave; and five beloved great-grandchildren. His passing is mourned by all who knew him, but his memory will forever be a guiding light in their lives. A private funeral ceremony will be held to honor John's extraordinary life. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a local animal shelter, a cause close to John's heart. John's life was a testament to service, kindness, and love. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.