John Critchley Martin, Jr.

John Critchley Martin Jr., age 92, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2026. John lived a life deeply committed to serving his community, his work, and above all, his family. A devoted husband, dedicated father, loving grandfather and exceptional attorney and public servant, John was a quiet man with a sharp mind and a huge heart. Though his final years were spent in Media, PA, John spent most of his adult life in his beloved Charlestown Township. In 1977, when developers began threatening Charlestown's natural beauty, he successfully ran for Township Supervisor on the campaign promise to "Keep Charlestown Green." John ultimately became chairman of the Board, a position he held for 18 years. John went on to serve the community as a member of the Charlestown Zoning Hearing Board and president of the Charlestown Historical Society. Through nearly four decades of public service, he helped shape Charlestown's planning, preservation, zoning, and development, leaving a lasting imprint on the community he loved. Perhaps the roots of John's lifelong commitment to public service began with his somewhat rebellious decision to join the Army in 1954. After two years of college, restless with academic life and eager for adventure, he enlisted hoping to become a paratrooper. Not quite as exhilarating, but still impactful, he spent three years serving as a quartermaster in Austria and Germany. John returned to the University of Delaware to complete his degree in chemistry after which he decided to pursue a career in patent law. He enrolled as a night student at George Washington University Law School while working days as a patent examiner at the U.S. Patent Office. During law school, John became a skilled orator, winning an award for his excellent debate skills. After law school, John worked as a patent attorney for several large law firms before joining Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO) as Patent Counsel in 1971, where he remained for nearly three decades. Retirement was simply the beginning of another chapter of service. John became a tax preparer for H&R Block, where he worked for more than 20 years and proudly became the office's oldest tax preparer at age 85. He also volunteered through the AARP Tax-Aide program, preparing tax returns for low-income individuals. Yet, of all his accomplishments and adventures, John found his greatest joy as father and patriarch for his many children and grandchildren. For 45 years, he and his beloved wife BJ built a home centered on family, laughter, and tradition. His children treasure memories of annual summer trips to Martha's Vineyard and the Outer Banks, Thanksgiving gatherings with extended family, baseball games and Sunday dinners, and other traditions that became the heart of their family life. All who knew John marveled at his quick wit and dry humor. He loved discussing politics and current events, and it was often during spirited conversations about the most sensitive issues where his humor and high intellect shone brightest. John was playful, even up to the final hours before his passing, and most of all, stayed true to himself. John is predeceased by his beloved wife, Elizabeth Jane (B.J.) Hoffman Martin, and his parents Alicia (née Loebe) and John C. Martin Sr. John is survived by his children: Kevin (Wendy) Martin, Jennifer (Scott) Frank, Jared (Zhanna) Martin, Allison Martin, and his Grandchildren: Tyler Martin, Kaylie Martin, Benjamin Frank, Owen Frank, Sydney Martin, Lucas Martin, Milena Martin, and Eliya Martin. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his memorial service at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at St. Peter's Pikeland United Church of Christ, 1193 Clover Mill Rd, Chester Springs, PA 19425. Prior to the service, visitation will be held at the Church from 10:00 a.m.- 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in the St. Peter's Pikeland United Church of Christ Cemetery. In lieu of flowers Memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter's Pikeland U.C.C. Arrangements are being handled by the Campbell - Ennis - Klotzbach Funeral Home, Inc. Condolences may be offered online at www.PhoenixvilleFuneralHome.com.

John Critchley Martin, Jr.

April 18, 1934 - June 22, 2026