John Richard Lacey

John R. Lacey, 79, of New Philadelphia, passed away unexpectedly on September 22, 2024 in St. Elizabeth’s Hospital at Youngstown, following more than a 12-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Born December 8, 1944, in Oxford Township, Ohio, John was the son of the late John E. and Opal K. (Marlatt) Lacey and following high school, served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, thus fulfilling his commitment to his country.

John dedicated himself to a career that spanned 27 years at the former Massillon Psychiatric Hospital in Massillon, Ohio. His work in this field reflected his compassion for others and a lasting commitment to mental health care. Through his years of service, John became known not only for his professionalism but also for his understanding nature. He found fulfillment in helping those around him, always approaching life with a calm demeanor that resonated with those fortunate enough to know him.

In his personal life, John cherished the simple moments, finding joy in quiet times. He was a man of few words, and his enduring love for his husband brought him immense happiness. Together they created lasting memories through their shared adventures. Traveling was a particular passion of John's, and he reveled in exploring new horizons, especially during trips to Europe and the tropical beauty of Hawaii.

John is survived by his husband and longtime companion of over 49 years, Gerald A. Stoughton of New Philadelphia; two sisters, Janice McFarland of Strasburg and Betty Lacey of Wichita, Kansas and a niece, Tammy Quillin of Massillon.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by a sister, Rosalie Wright.

Friends are invited to visit and share memories of John on Sunday, September 29, 2024 from 2 to 4 PM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. In keeping with his wishes, cremation care is to be provided by the funeral home and a private burial will take place in East Avenue Cemetery at New Philadelphia.

The family wishes to thank the entire staff of Park Village Health Care Center at Dover for their care of John over the past year. It has been requested that memorial contributions be directed to the Parkinson’s Foundation at  https://www.parkinson.org/how-to-help.