Howard "John" Greggs Jr

Howard “John” Greggs, 80 of Franklin, PA passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by loved ones on July 31^st, 2025. A man of deep faith, strong values and tireless dedication to others, John spent his life serving both his community and church with compassion, humility and quiet strength.   A lifetime resident of Franklin, John was born to Cecelia Ryczko and Howard Greggs on March 20^th, 1945. He was raised by his mother and stepfather Richard alongside his cousins who were like siblings to him, and he graduated from Franklin Highschool in 1964.

John is preceded in death by his parents Cecelia, Howard and stepfather Richard, his cousin Sonny who he was especially close to, as well numerous other aunts, uncles and cousins.

John leaves behind a legacy of compassion, service, and strength. John served as the Venango County Coroner for 16 years, a role he carried with integrity, respect and dignity. He approached his difficult work with a sense of duty and honor, always mindful of the families he served, and the trust placed in him. In total he spent 25 years serving in the coroner’s office, responding to calls at all times to care for others in times of crisis. John was a founder of the Community Ambulance Service, member of the United Way Board, State EMS board and Franklin Hospital Board.

A proud and active member of the Church of the Nazarene, John lived out his faith through constant acts of kindness and service. He volunteered at the church in many capacities but especially loved working with the children in the church as a youth group leader and Sunday School Teacher.

Outside of his service to others, John found joy in simple pleasures. He was an avid runner who participated in several marathons throughout the years. He shared his love of running through coaching the Franklin Cross Country team with his wife Lynn for 5 years. Even in his later years he could be found running through town or passing out water to runners during the Applefest 5k. He also had a deep love for animals, especially his beloved collies and miniature collies, who he cared for like family and brought him great comfort and companionship throughout his life.

Above all John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife of 32 years Lynn. Loving father to Rob (Roz) Greggs, Shellie (Dan) Bell, Rich (Shannon) Biery and Matt (Katarina) Biery.  Proud grandfather of Elizabeth (Erik) Argentine, Lauryn (Paul) Asmann, Ryan and Cecily Greggs, Nathan (Caitlyn) Bell, Katie (Hunter) Eubanks, Finley, Alistair, River, Gus and Daisy Biery. Caring great-grandfather to Buck and Fisher Eubanks, Brooks and Olivia Bell, Easton Asmann and Lily Argentine. His legacy of faith, service and love will live on through all who knew and cherished him.

Guests are invited to the Gardinier-Warren Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 1315 Chestnut Street, Franklin on Monday, August 4th from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm and at the Franklin Church of the Nazarene, 393 Pone Lane on Tuesday, August 5th from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.  Services for John will be held immediately following the Tuesday visitation at the church with Pastor David Smith officiating.

John will be laid to rest in Bell Cemetery, Milledgeville, PA.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in John’s name to The Humane Society of Venango County, The Community Ambulance Service, and VNA Hospice Foundation.

Please take a moment to share a memory or condolence with the family on John’s Book of Memories online at WarrenFH.com.