John A. Poillon, 91, of Barryville, NY, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, at Bon Secours Community Hospital in Port Jervis, NY.
John was born on December 14, 1934, in Staten Island, NY, to the late Stanley and Viola (Fennell) Poillon. In 1955, he married the love of his life, Geraldine Grote, and together they shared 70 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, devotion and family.
After graduating from high school, John proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War, from which he was honorably discharged. His military service was a source of great pride throughout his life—Semper Fi, forever.
John spent his career working for the New York City Sanitation Department, retiring as a mechanic after many years of dedicated service. Known for his strong work ethic and mechanical skill, he took pride in providing for his family and doing a job well.
John will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud Veteran, and a man who valued family, service and hard work above all else. He was a longtime member of the Yulan Rod & Gun Club and the Tusten-Highland-Lumberland VFW Post #6427. John greatly enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing, hunting and birdwatching. A skilled wood-craftsman, he lovingly handcrafted a rocking chair for each of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren—treasured keepsakes that will remain part of his legacy for generations to come.
John is survived by his wife Geraldine; four daughters: Dawn Maher and husband Larry Maher, Barbara Lizzi and husband Ray Lizzi; Karen Poillon Delong and spouse Sherry Delong Poillon; and Christine Poillon-Gallagher; son-in-law Erik Thompson of Bullville, NY; 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
John is predeceased by his daughter, Denise Thompson, and brothers Stanley and Bruce Poillon.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Harrison Rasmussen Funeral Home of Barryville, 3412 Rte. 97, Barryville, NY 12719. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday June 13, 2026 at Crossroads, 2 Beaver Brook Road, Yulan, NY.
Donations can be made to the Tusten-Highland-Lumberland VFW Post #6427, PO Box 412, Narrowsburg, NY 12764.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Harrison Rasmussen Funeral Home of Barryville, 845/557-8010.