John Gregory "Greg" Popham

John Gregory Popham, a dedicated public servant, passed away at his home on March 10, 2025, following what appeared to be a heart attack. He was 75 years old.

Born on February 21, 1950, in Cleveland, Greg was the son of the late John H. Popham and Janice E. (Powell) Popham. He graduated from Indian Valley South High School in 1969 before serving in the United States Army for three years, receiving an honorable discharge.

After returning to Tuscarawas County, Greg devoted more than five decades to the City of New Philadelphia, serving in various roles including firefighter, Detective Captain for the police department, and, most recently he was actively serving as Safety Director. He was deeply committed to public service and was known for his warmth and friendliness, never meeting a stranger. In addition, Greg served with the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District as the assistant safety director and worked as a security guard at Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital and Union Hospital, where he made many lasting connections.

Outside of his public service, Greg was passionate about fishing, spending time with his grandchildren, and tackling projects—often earning the nickname “McGyver” from his family for his knack for fixing things.

On June 20, 1981, Greg married the love of his life, Linda S. Rybarczyk, who survives him. He will also be deeply missed by his son, Robert (Karen) Phillips of Washington and their children, Lucas and Lily; his daughter, Rachel (Tony) Montero of New Philadelphia and their children, Ciro and Lola; his sister, Gale (Jimmy) Stull of New Philadelphia; his sister-in-law, Shirley Campbell; his brother-in-law, Louie Rybarczyk; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Greg was preceded in death by his parents-in-law, Felix and Margaret Rybarczyk, and his beloved K-9 companion, Mickey.

A memorial visitation will take place on Sunday, March 16, 2025 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory in New Philadelphia, with a service by the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #4 beginning at 4 p.m. A memorial service to celebrate Greg’s life will be held on Monday, March 17, at the First Christian Church in New Philadelphia at 10:30 a.m., with Pastor Jim Borton officiating. Following the service, inurnment will take place at Evergreen Burial Park, with military honors rendered by the New Philadelphia VFW Post #1445.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made in Greg’s memory to the Tuscarawas County Humane Society.