John R. Hess, age 54, of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, February 6, 2025. He was a devoted husband to Jaylene L. (Yoder) Hess, with whom he shared 30 wonderful years of marriage. Born on October 11, 1970, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, John was the son of John J. and Bonnie L. (Breighner) Hess of Gettysburg. John Hess was a respected figure in his community, deeply involved in agriculture and his faith.
John Hess’s life was marked by dedication to his family, his work, and his community. He was a lifelong learner, graduating from New Oxford High School in 1989 and becoming an alumnus of Penn State University. His commitment to education extended to his professional life and community service. John was an active member of Bethel Mennonite Church in Biglerville and also attended GBC Church in Gettysburg, where he participated in the men’s group, further demonstrating his strong faith and community spirit.
A significant part of John Hess’s life was his passion for agriculture. He was a member and co-owner of JOBO Farm, LLC, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to farming. His involvement in the agricultural sector went beyond his own farm; he was a member of HBR Partnership, served on the Land O Lakes Co-op board, and was a past president of the Adams County Farm Bureau. John’s leadership and expertise were further recognized when he was elected as a Mt. Pleasant Township Supervisor in the fall of 2024, a role he served with diligence and commitment to his local area. Those who knew John Hess understood his deep love for his family and his unwavering passion for the advancement of agriculture, making him a pillar in his community.
John Hess is survived by his loving wife, Jaylene, and his parents, John and Bonnie Hess. His legacy continues through his children: Jalesha M. Fereday and her husband Brett of Hanover, John L. Hess and his wife Courtney of Biglerville, Julie E. Hess of Gettysburg, and Jordan S. Hess of Gettysburg. He was also a proud grandfather to Eliza L. Fereday of Hanover. John is also remembered by his four sisters: Jennie H. Brown and her husband Dale of Gettysburg, Josie M. Riser and her husband Mike of Gettysburg, Jayne N. Sebright and her husband Robby of East Berlin, and Joy N. Widerman and her husband Brock of Gettysburg, as well as his paternal grandmother, Mildred Shue of Mountville. He was predeceased by a grandchild, baby Hess.
A memorial service to celebrate the life of John Hess will be held at GBC Church, 95 Fairview Rd, Gettysburg, on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 11 AM, officiated by Pastor Bill Mummert. Prior to the service, a visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM. The family suggests that memorial contributions in memory of John Hess be made to Farm Bureau and Land O Lakes Leadership, reflecting his dedication to these organizations. Arrangements are under the care of Feiser Funeral Home, Inc, 302 Lincoln Way West, New Oxford. Memories and condolences can be shared online at www.feiserfuneralhome.com.
