John Earl Poling Jr.

John Earl Poling Jr. 68, of Punxsutawney, entered into paradise and the Loving Arms of Jesus, Our Savior, on February 25, 2025 after a long siege of health problems. 

John was born on January 26, 1957 at Shelburne U.S. Naval Base in Nova Scotia, where his father’s naval service began the family’s trek hither and yon across America, including California, Maryland, and West Virginia before eventually settling in Pennsylvania.

John finished school in 1980 with a GED in Punxsutawney. On the cold windy afternoon of June 23, 1979 he married his wife, Robin Ann Reed at the Grange Church of God officiated by Pastor David Stickley. What followed were almost 46 years of honeymoon on the G.M. Reed Farm (Gilbert McGregor “Muck” Reed Farm) and the surrounding neighborhood. They enjoyed many memorable family trips, including being splashed by the Original Shamu at SeaWorld in Ohio, and many grand reunions with precious family.

He found his strength in God through an auto accident on Feb. 4, 1988. He loved to preach about Jesus Christ and His Crucifixion to any who would listen, and even to those who wouldn't. John had been employed at many places before his accident, including Penn Lines, Punxsutawney School District, Sam Jack Drilling, Kerr Contracting, and at the Mahoning Dam and most recently, he was Head “Painter” for his son’s rental properties, JP3 Realty LLC. He also spent a few years in the PA National Guard as a Combat Engineer. John was an avid hunter. He loved Pennsylvania game, in his sights, in his pots, and in his chili. He also enjoyed fishing with the kids whenever he could. He liked growing and sharing organic strawberries and eggs with family, friends, and neighbors.

John is survived by his loving wife, Robin; three wonderful children, John (Ashley) Poling, III, Dirk Poling, and Angel (Kyle) Poling; blessed grandchildren, Kyle (Chloe) Poling, Bentley Shaffer, and Rhaea Soto-Poling; one sister, Susan James; two brothers, Mike Poling and Brian Poling; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and Reed-in-laws. 

Preceding him in death were his parents, John Earl Poling, Sr., 52, in April 1980 and Gwendolyn “Joanne” Poling (Ashbaugh), 75, in April 11, 2008 along with both sets of grandparents.

Friends and family will be received on Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 11:00 AM until the time of service at 1:00 PM, with Pastor Joe Spack officiating, at McCabe Funeral Home, 114 Maple Avenue, Punxsutawney, PA, 15767.

In lieu of flowers, donations to help with expenses would be graciously received by: John Poling III, 1421 N. Enterline Road, Punxsutawney, PA, 15767.