John Regan

John Regan, 63, of Clifford Township, Pennsylvania passed away on June 23, 2026 unexpectedly at home with his family by his side. His wife of 40 years is Linda Lee Regan. 

Born on December 16, 1962 in Morristown, NJ, he was the son of the late John W. Regan and Dorothy Locker Regan.

Following his graduation from Bishop Hannan High School in 1980, he attended Johnson School of Technology. He worked for several auto parts companies before he found his true calling, auctioneering. He was a professional auctioneer for 36 years. This was his God-given talent and true passion. A talented auctioneer and showman, he had natural ability. He commanded the crowd, confidently handled all elements of sale day, and sold all items with the same passion from the smallest of tools to the highest valued real estate properties. He was proud to do his very best for every client he served. His quick thinking, quick wit and charisma were unmatched.

From a young age, he was dedicated to his family and was a true family man. Growing up with seven sisters, John took pride in being an older brother. He met his soulmate, Linda, at 18 years old and they built a life, a business, and a family side by side. He loved her deeply and proclaimed his love for her daily. He would never miss an opportunity to say how much she meant to him. Equally loved were his daughters and their families. He was so proud of his girls and together they shared a passion for horses with him. He loved being a Poppy to Cora and Hayes. They now have the best guardian angel.

John and Linda raised their family and grew their business from John's family farm. Originally purchased in the 1950s by his grandparents as a summer farm, it was his honor to purchase it and continue their legacy. He treasured the memories growing up there with his grandparents, parents, sisters, uncles, and cousins. The memories continued with his beloved wife and daughters. Over the past few years, he loved seeing his daughters, their families, and most especially his grandchildren enjoy the horses, sit on the front porch, and share the family stories. His work ethic and drive were a force to be reckoned with. He was constantly on the go with his beloved Red Heelers, first Cinch and then Axel riding next to him in a Dodge truck.

A childhood passion for horses carried on throughout his life. From the smallest ponies to the largest draft horses, he delighted in buying, selling, trading, riding, and simply enjoying horses. He also truly appreciated the art of driving horses, something he was taught at a young age. He took pride in giving many their first ride. Every party on the farm included John saddling a horse. His passion for horses continues on through his daughters and now his grandchildren.

Always willing to lend a helpful hand, he donated his talent, time and money to endless causes. He would happily joke that he "needed the practice" auctioneering. From the public efforts such as charity auctions to the little-known ways John generously helped friends in need, the ripples of his kindness and generosity echo through Northeast PA. His charismatic ability and passion for conducting an auction was second to none, helping endless clients and their families and making countless friends along the way. It was pure enjoyment for him. He donated his abilities to many local charities and organizations, most recently to one of his favorites, Camp Freedom.

John's talents were recognized by the Pennsylvania Auctioneers Association who awarded him Northeast Chapter Auctioneer of the Year in 2003. He also placed in the Top 10 and Top 5 in the statewide bid calling contests on several occasions.

With his loving family and his strong faith, he courageously faced a non-cancerous brain tumor diagnosis this year. His 15-hour surgery was a success and all nerve function was intact. True to his drive and work ethic, he was steadfast in his efforts to continue his business and his life right up until his final moments on this earth. Our sincere thanks to Dr. Rafael Martinez Perez and his team at Geisinger Wyoming Valley for the superb care they provided John.

In addition to his wife Linda, John is also survived by two daughters: Jenna Regan (Matt), and Alyssa Regan Alexander (Michael); two precious grandchildren: Cora Alexander and Hayes Hopkins; six sisters: Phylis Regan, Frances Regan, Dorothy Osborne, Mia Regan-Duffy (Donald), Barbara McDonald (Joseph), and Janet Coleman (William); his mother-in-law, Dorothy Sheypuk Lee; brother-in-laws: Atty. Joseph Geiger, William Lee (Janine), Robert Lee (Lisa); and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his father-in-law, William J. Lee, a sister, Kelly Geiger; a brother-in-law, Atty. Christopher Osborne and many beloved aunts and uncles.

He made a living with his voice and a legacy with his heart. He will be missed beyond words.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 11:00 AM in St. Mary's Church, 242 Carbondale Road, Waymart, PA with Rev. Joseph Sitko and Deacon Edward Kelly officiating. 

Visitation will be Monday, June 29 from 4-8 PM at the Howell Family Funeral Home, Inc., Edward R. Howell, Funeral Director, 269 Belmont Street, Waymart, PA 18472. www.HowellFamilyFuneralHome.com