John David Fearnow Sr., 89, of Newport, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Carteret Health Care.

Born on September 12, 1936, in Falling Waters, West Virginia, John was the son of the late James W. Fearnow and Delores Landis Fearnow. He attended Martinsburg High School, where he met the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Shirley. A proud patriot, John honorably served in the Army National Guard.

John enjoyed a distinguished 44-year career with J.C. Penney, beginning as a sales associate in the shoe department. Through hard work, determination, and a natural talent for leadership and managerial talent, he advanced to the position of Assistant Manager before becoming a Store Manager. Throughout his career, John relocated to various stores along the Northeastern seaboard, earning a reputation as J.C. Penney's trusted "troubleshooter." When a store was struggling, John was often called upon to restore profitability and strengthen operations. Time and again, he successfully turned challenged locations around, only to be entrusted with another assignment and another opportunity to lead. His dedication, business sense and commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on both the company and the many colleagues he mentored along the way. Upon retirement, John and Shirley fulfilled a longtime dream by settling in their favorite vacation destination, Atlantic Beach, North Carolina.

John will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, and a loyal friend whose presence brought comfort and strength to those around him.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are the love of his life, his loving wife of 68 years, Shirley Greene Fearnow and his brother, James Philip Wade Fearnow of Martinsburg, WV.

John is also survived by his son, John D. Fearnow Jr.; daughter, Tonya Rae Winters and husband Preston; grandchildren, Christopher Fearnow ("TJ"), Aimee Craft (Stephen), Michael McMillen (Morgan), Kyl Hazen, and Katya Osonitsh (Steven); and great-grandchildren, Koriann Fearnow, Joslyn Fearnow, Christopher Fearnow Jr., Raiden Craft, Payton Craft, Luke McMillen, Novaleigh McMillen, Steven Osonitsh Jr., Saoirse Osonitsh, and Rónán Osonitsh.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Vicki Fearnow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Building Fund at St. Mildred's Catholic Church, 616 E. Sabiston Drive, Swansboro, NC 28584. The family also welcomes food donations to be delivered to the family home.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.