John F. Ferry III
Ocean Pines
On June 19, 2026, John Francis Ferry III passed away at the age of 38, leaving behind a mountain of memories and even more DVDs.
John lived his life like an award-winning film that was full of heart, remarkable moments, and plenty of quotable dialogue. Like movies, he brought people together. Always the main character living life loudly, authentically, and entirely in the present moment, he embodied a perfect cross between two of his favorite actors, Tom Hanks and Robert De Niro. He demonstrated Hanks’s warmth with an infectious smile and hugs that made you feel like the center of the universe.
No one was friendlier than John, and no one stayed a stranger to him for long. Truly, to know him was to love him.
He also had the stubbornness of a classic De Niro character. John was a master at holding his ground, insisting on a point, and frequently repeating himself. It was often pointless to argue with him, though; he was usually right.
A natural-born entertainer, during his time at United Rehabilitation Services (URS) in Hazleton John commanded the spotlight in their annual Christmas and spring musicals. He also beamed his uplifting energy (no matter how off-key) in the URS chorale group, Our Proud Voices.
True to his generous spirit, John’s final act was to be an organ donor, so he can continue to bring healing and comfort to others.
John held his many co-stars dearly. He leaves behind his mother, Paula Matus Ferry, his father John “Jack” Ferry Jr., and stepmother Cathy Gallagher. Siblings Maeve Shay and husband Ian Shay, Caitlin Ferry, and William Ferry. Niece Sawyer Shay. Beloved aunts and uncles, Scott Matus, Kathy Sweet, Karen Neglia, Jeffrey and Carmen Ferry, Michael and Marguerite Picucci, and Patrick and Colette Ferry, in addition to his many cousins and friends. Preceding him in death were his grandparents, John “Jack” Sr. and Mary Ferry and Paul and Dorothy Matus, and uncle, Frank Neglia (we can already hear the “DooDah”s).
The family would also like to extend gratitude to the staff at Fresenius Kidney Care Bethlehem who served as John’s ultimate supporting cast.
In his honor, the family asks that you live authentically, put on a great film, and give someone you love an unforgettable hug.
A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Gift of Life, 401 North 3rd St. Philadelphia, PA 19123.