John David Pelkey, 79, of Cumberland Head, succumbed to cancer and renal failure on Aug. 30, 2022. He was born the youngest child of Marshall and Florence (Beauharnois) Pelkey on Dec. 9, 1942, in Plattsburgh.

John graduated from Our Lady of Victory Academy where he was active in athletics. He went on to earn both BS and MS degrees in Education from SUNY Plattsburgh. John began his teaching career downstate, where he also coached basketball. He returned home to teach elementary school and then math, in Plattsburgh. He was dedicated to his students, including the many student teachers he mentored. John became actively involved in establishing and supporting the local chapter of NYSUT. He was also instrumental in developing a mentoring program in cooperation with the SUNY Education Department. He was proud to have been invited to present this program to the national Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators.

John is predeceased by his parents, brothers Arthur and Joseph, and sister Patricia Hanlon. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Jennie (Sam), his adored daughter Johnna Beth, his sister Mary Mihal, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Wednesday, September 7th, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Heald Funeral Home, 48 Court St., Plattsburgh, N.Y. A memorial Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Victory on Thursday, September 8th, at noon.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of John D. Pelkey may be made to the American Cancer Society, or the charity of one's choice.

To light a memorial candle or leave an online condolence please visit www.healdfuneralhomeinc.com