John Pearson Becker

John Pearson Becker, 81, passed away peacefully at his home on January 14, 2026 with his wife Carol Bernardini and his children by his side. John's quick, light-hearted wit, beautiful smile, and kind, gentle ways will be missed by all who knew him. He was a thoughtful man who asked little of the world, never judged others, and loved unconditionally.

John's early days were spent in Mamaroneck, NY, and Cape Cod. His college years at St. Bonaventure and Boston College led him to be an English major. Much of his adult life was in Syracuse where he taught English to hundreds of students at Jamesville-Dewitt High School. 

His love of the written and spoken word inspired him to write an unpublished novella and win a poetry Slam Contest. Reading and writing were his life long passions. He could recite lines of Shakespeare on cue, and if anyone needed a definition, he could provide it. While at JD, he coached cross country track, taught SU English, and worked summers cleaning city pools, painting houses, and teaching at Elmcrest Children's Center.

John is survived by his six children from his previous marriage of many years to Ellen Becker. Matt Becker (Diane), Sarah Giordano, Emily Welling (Jeremy), Bessie Edwards, Lucas Becker (Meredith), and Zachery Becker were a very important part of his life. He was very proud of his 10 grandchildren Liam, Madeline, Aiden, Olivia, Alexander, Katherine, Ryan, Olivia, Jacob, Emma. John also had a special place in his heart for his stepson, Casey Corcoran, his wife, Margie Skeer, and their children, Rafael and Ariella.John is also survived by his much loved sisters, Susan Becker and Marcia Becker, and his brother, Chris (Bonnie), as well as his nieces, Katie and Kerri.

Much love and thanks to Keyata Love and Brenda Rockwell for their remarkable support and skills.

John's family will gather at Cape Cod in August to celebrate his life.

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