John “Jack” R. Porter Jr., 70, of Independence Township, passed away on March 28th, 2026, at UPMC Mercy Hospital, with his loving family by his side. He was born in Pittsburgh on February 16th, 1956, the son of the late John R. Porter Sr. and Joan Ekas. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Karen Porter, and his daughter, Rochelle Porter. He is survived by his loving son, John “J.J.” Porter (Gabriella Muoio), his aunt and uncle, Ed and Marie Kohar of Baden, his stepbrother, Brian (Kathy) Hans of Georgetown and his dear friends, Tony Blum, Carolyn Dunne, Valerie Tilson, and Michelle Pietrzak.He was also loved and remembered by the Sisters of Saint Joseph, along with numerous cousins and friends. Jack also had a special love for his pets: Troy, Crosby, Batman, Junior, and Betty Joe, who were truly part of his family.

John was a 1974 graduate of Moon High School, a 1976 graduate of Robert Morris University, and a 1977 graduate of the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. He faithfully served his community as a licensed funeral director for over 50 years, including 23 years at Derrick’s Funeral Home and 29 years at the John Syka Funeral Home Inc in Ambridge.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, April 1st from 2–4 P.M. and 6–8 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements. Family and friends will also meet on Thursday, April 2nd in the Good Samaritan Catholic Church, 725 Glenwood Avenue, Ambridge, for a Funeral Service at 1:30 P.M. with Father Joe Carr officiating.  Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses at UPMC Mercy Hospital and his devoted traveling nurse Lea of Concordia Visiting Nurses. Finally, to all who provided care, comfort, and support during Jacks final journey.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John “Jack” R. Porter, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.