John Richard Janney

John R. Janney, age 85 of Hardy, formerly of Reading, PA passed from this life to eternal life on Friday, October 28, 2022, comforted by Scripture readings, favorite hymns, and prayers with his son David at his side. John was an active member of Grace Bible Fellowship Church in Reading, Pennsylvania and his faith community. John is predeceased by his brother Robert Janney, U.S. Army rank unknown; and he is survived by his former wife Ruth Janney; their children Ruthie Walker, Dr. David Janney, Paul Janney, and Amy Stockli; his grandchildren; his brothers Captain Michael Janney of the U.S. Air Force, retired, and Allan Janney; and his many friends. John had a passion for reading God’s Word and found reading Christian and theological books a blessing. He especially loved reading Charles H. Spurgeon and wrote a weekly devotional email for many years, sharing Spurgeon’s wisdom with others. He was a huge classic movie buff—particularly musicals—with his favorite musical being "There’s No Business Like Show Business" starring Ethel Merman. He loved musicals so much that he would often break out into song when someone said a sentence with the same lyrics. Anyone who knew him well, knew that he had a major sweet tooth, and that a Hershey’s chocolate bar and a good steak dinner were his staple foods. He was born in 1937 to Dr. Harold M. Janney (Medical Director BOP, 1956-1959) and Helen H. Janney. He was a graduate of the University of Maryland and Westminster Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania. While a student at UMD, he was President of Campus Crusade for Christ (Cru) at Maryland University and American University. He worked directly with William R. Bright, founder of CCC/Cru, at the same time that Reverend Billy Graham served on the board. After seminary, he pastored several churches. For the past 30 years, he taught Sunday school, spoke at local religious events, discipled many believers, mentored theological students, and found great purpose in helping anyone in need. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. A memorial service will be held in his honor on Saturday, November 12, 2022 at 11:00 am at Grace Bible Fellowship Church, 1128 Hampden Blvd., Reading, PA 19604, led by his long-time minister and friend Pastor Randy Grossman. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount/Smith Mountain Lake.