John "Jay" Pugh

Goheen, III

John "Jay" Pugh Goheen, III passed away peacefully on November 3, 2026, at his home in North Cape May, New Jersey, surrounded by the warmth of the Jersey Shore that he loved so much. He was reunited in eternity with his beloved wife, Mary Jane (Richards) Goheen, who predeceased him on October 18, 2025.

Jay was the son of the late John Pugh Goheen Jr. and the late Ruth (Stiles) Goheen. He was born and raised in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, before attending Brown Vocational High School in Wilmington, Delaware, where he first sparked the technical curiosity and sharp mind that would define his life. Jay’s early years included working summers as a lifeguard on Long Beach Island before his passion for adventure led him to a proud and distinguished 22-year career serving our country in the Navy. As aircrew in the Douglas A-3 Skywarrior, he flew numerous combat and reconnaissance missions over Southeast Asia. Following his military service, Jay translated his expertise into a successful civilian career as an electronics and communication engineer for Lockheed Martin, working on the Aegis Combat System to continue his proud dedication to the defense of our nation's naval fleet.

But it was “down the shore" where Jay’s life found its true course the day he met Mary Jane. Together, they spent most months at their beach home in Stone Harbor, leading to what Jay proudly described as "40 years of pure bliss.” When at home in Gloucester City, Jay was widely known across the airwaves by his callsign, KB2ADL (now a Silent Key). He was a dedicated member and officer of the Gloucester City Amateur Radio Club, serving faithfully over the years as Treasurer, Secretary, and Editor. Jay’s deep commitment to his community and faith was also evident through his service as a decorated Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus and as a devoted parishioner of Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Church.

Later in life, Jay brought his military background and generous spirit to the Naval Air Station Wildwood (NASW) Aviation Museum in Cape May. He eagerly spent countless hours on the museum floor educating guests and proudly curated his very own special exhibit, the Skywarrior display. Jay will always be remembered as a dedicated veteran, a passionate storyteller, and a treasured uncle who leaves behind a legacy of laughter, "larger-than-life" stories, and beautiful shore memories.

Jay was predeceased by his beloved Mary Jane; his parents, John and Ruth (Stiles) Goheen; his brother, Peter; and his children, John and Nora. He is survived by his son, Richard; his grandson, Stormy Lee (Amber); his great-granddaughter, Danika; and his great-grandson, Martin. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, with whom he shared an incredibly close bond and a lifetime of cherished memories: his loving niece, Heather (Bea); his four nephews, Raymond (Elizabeth), Ryan, Bob, and Todd (Abby); his great-nieces, Victoria, Julia, Gia (Ryan), Deven (Shane), Riley, Bella, Emily Jane, and Alexia; his great-nephews, Bobby, Oliver, and Royce; and his great-great- niece, Delaney Rae and great-great-nephew, David Ryan IV.

Relatives and friends are invited to his visitation on Friday, November 20th from 10 to 11 AM at St. Mary’s R.C. Church, 426 Monmouth St., Gloucester City. Mass of Christian Burial 11 AM in the church. Interment with U.S. Navy military honors will follow in New St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jay’s honor to the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum (500 Forrestal Road, Cape May, NJ 08204) to support the preservation of the aviation history he loved so dearly.

May the waves now and forever carry Jay and Mary Jane together, hand-in-hand once again, “On the Way to Cape May.”