John Henry Porter Jr.

John Henry Porter, Jr., 75, of Long Branch, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on June 15, 2026.

Born on August 5, 1950, in Red Bank, New Jersey, John lived a life defined by kindness, patience, and devotion to his family. He was the quiet rock of those who loved him; a gentle, steady presence whose strength was found not in loud words, but in his unwavering care for others.

John was married to the love of his life, Linda Ann (Hackett) Porter, for 43 years after a nine-year courtship. Together they shared more than five decades of love, partnership, and devotion, building a family grounded in loyalty, laughter, and unwavering support for one another. Their marriage was a testament to commitment, friendship, and enduring love.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Porter; his daughter, Katherine Louise Porter; his son, Martin Henry Porter; his cherished granddaughter, Marley Rose Kiss; and his brother, George Porter. He is also survived by a host of beloved nieces and nephews, including Leah Porter, Sayscha Porter, Brenda Rockwell-Porter, Mark Porter, John Porter, Robert Hills, Edward Porter, Karissa Biddle, Khiry Porter, Fakasia Porter, Tempest Porter, and many others who will cherish his memory.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John Henry Porter, Sr. and Blanche Louise Dirrickson Porter, as well as his six siblings: Patricia (“Pat”), Elaine, Quetta, Cheryl, Robert, and Jackie.

Throughout his working life, John served as a custodian for the Red Bank Public School District and later worked in medical transportation for J&D Transportation. He approached his work with the same reliability, compassion, and quiet dedication that characterized every part of his life.

John had a lifelong love of music, especially the funk and soul sounds of the 1970s. He was known for his remarkable knowledge of movies and music and could often identify an artist within moments of hearing a song. Friends and family frequently turned to him when they couldn’t remember the name of a movie, actor, or musician because chances were good that John knew the answer. He loved trivia, enjoyed sharing what he knew, and delighted in learning new facts. Family members fondly remember his legendary rivalry at the local Blockbuster Video, where he once held the record for renting the most movies.

Among his greatest companions was his beloved dog, Diva, whose devotion to him was matched only by his love for her.

Those who knew John will remember his gentle heart, his patience, his quiet sense of humor, and the way he made people feel cared for simply by being present. While he rarely sought attention for himself, he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, love, and steadfast support that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

In accordance with his wishes, John was cremated. A memorial celebration of his life is being planned for August 2026, with additional details to be shared with family and friends in the coming weeks.

Though the quiet rock of the family is gone, the love, kindness, and steady presence he gave so freely will remain with those who knew and loved him.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Services are entrusted to Jersey Shore Cremation Service, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan, NJ - JerseyShoreCremation.com