John T. Arthur, 81, of Belfast passed away on Friday (September 18, 2026) at his home as a result of a medical incident.
Mr. Arthur was born on January 27, 1945 in Providence, RI, to Merwyn E. and Ellen C. (Sternberg) Arthur. John was a 1964 graduate of Leigh High School, in San Jose, CA, after which he obtained his Associates Degree in electronics from West Valley College in California. Following this, John completed two additional years at Humboldt University. He proudly served in the United States Army from 1966 – 1969.
Throughout his working life, John pursued a variety of interests and occupations. He built and installed high-frequency wireless communication systems for telephone companies, worked in food service, and edited manuscripts for TAB Books, which published collections of musical tablatures for instruments such as guitars. Before retiring, John worked as a school custodian.
John is survived by two sisters, Ann A. Marchand of Norcross, GA, and Margaret A. Thornton of Cambridge, Maryland, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Along with his parents, John was predeceased by a sister, Christine E. Arthur.
John lived in California and Hawaii before eventually making Belfast his home. He came to the area to care for his mother for 11 years before her passing.
A man of many interests, John was an avid ham radio operator and over the years built an impressive collection of equipment. He was also a devoted Buffalo Bills fan, a passion he inherited from his mother.
John was deeply committed to helping others. For 12 years, he served with the Office for the Aging in Belmont as a member of its Volunteer Transportation Program. He was a quiet and private person who preferred the company of a friend or two to being in a crowd. Those who knew him well will remember him as a genuinely kind and helpful man who was always ready to lend a hand to family and friends whenever he was needed.
There will be no prior visitation. A graveside service with full military honors will be held at Bath National Cemetery, where John will be laid to rest. The date and time of the service will be announced when arrangements are finalized.
Arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan Funeral Home, Scio/Wellsville. Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.
Memorial contributions in John’s memory may be made to the Office for the Aging, 6085 SR 19N, Belmont, NY 14813. © 2025 Baker-Swan Funeral Home.
