John Howard Foley 85, of St. Joseph, MO., passed away Friday, November 22, 2024 at the Cameron Veterans Home, Cameron, MO. He was born November 7, 1939 in McPaul, IA, son of the late Lucille and Francis Foley.
He graduated from Central High School class of 1957, then joined the United States Marines Corps. After his discharge he returned to achieve his degrees from Northwest Missouri State University BS ED, then a Masters in Education, and later obtained a degree in Library science. He married Karen Comte on April 29, 1990 and she survives the home. John retired after 37 years of teaching from Benton High School, teaching world history, government, and then became the Librarian. He was an avid gardener, excellent cook, he loved everything South Side St. Joseph, and was an avid history buff for St. Joseph and Benton High School, writing the 2 volume book "A Centennial History of Benton High School 1905-2005" which contains a complete list of all the graduates in that time period.
John was preceded in death by his parents, 1/2 sister, Dorothy Sandusky, sister, Sue Gering, and 1/2 brother, Bill Foley.
Survivors include wife, Karen Jean Foley of the home, sons, Michael (Corina) Foley of Nixa, MO, and Ryan (Lelana) Foley of Grain Valley, MO, step sons, Daniel (Maggie) Sullivan of Bethel, Maine, Michael (Rachael) Sullivan of Charlottesville, VA, and Sean (Chris) Sullivan of London, England, step daughters Meg (Jorge Neves) Sullivan of Narrowsburg, NY, and Erin Sullivan of Alexandria, VA, sister Mary Lou Gerstner of St. Joseph, MO, and 17 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
The family will receive friends from 3-6:00 PM on Sunday December 1, 2024 at the Rupp Funeral Home. A Celebration of John's life will be conducted at 10:00 am Monday, December 2, 2024 at the Rupp Funeral Home.
