John S. Abbott ’49

John died peacefully Nov. 8, 2019, in Jacksonville, Fla., just one week shy of his 92nd birthday.  

John worked for many years in the insurance industry but went back to school and in 1981 earned a master of arts degree in teaching from Jacksonville University. He then taught history and economics at St. Johns Country Day School in Orange Park, Fla., also serving on the school’s board of trustees. 

John was a charter volunteer at the World Golf Hall of Fame in St. Augustine, Fla., where he was recognized for more than 2,500 hours of service as a museum docent. 

John was an avid N-gauge model railroad builder and an aficionado of word games and puzzles of all kinds. In 2011 he published a book entitled Tales of Bygone Days, a compilation of memories of growing up in New York City and Old Lyme, Conn., and attending Phillips Exeter Academy. 

John was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Pat. He is survived by his son, John Jr.; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and his sister, Penny.