John Walter McNamara

John Walter McNamara, aged 91, of Mt. Holly, NJ, formerly Philadelphia PA and London England, passed away on Monday April, 29, 2024, leaving behind a legacy filled with energy, love, and unwavering dedication. Born on August 14, 1932, in Twickenham, England, John's vibrant life was deeply rooted in his devotion to family, his passion for sports, and his lasting friendships. John attended the distinguished Merchant Taylors School in Northwood, UK, but left at age 15 to work in construction due to financial constraints. An enterprising young man, he became a self-made businessman, adapting his sales skills to various environments, including opening a branch of the renowned Maple Furniture store in Bermuda, named House of Maple. He owned and operated three employment agencies in London, before moving Stateside, representing Draper apparel before retiring. A fervent and skilled athlete, John played rugby with enthusiasm, starring at school, club and professional levels. He captained his school team, and played for Sale, a Rugby Union team in Salford, near Manchester. He capped off his career as captain of the Bermuda side. During his distinguished 21-year playing career he broke three fingers, a leg, and a shoulder blade. Towards the latter part of his career he would threaten to retire every year, only to show up for training the following season. He also was an accomplished boxer in the British Army, and went almost undefeated — the one loss came when his father came to see him ringside. He also loved playing court tennis, which he did on a recreational level. Sports were in his DNA. Even at age 90, he was fond of telling people, “I’m not currently playing rugby.” He served as president of the prestigious Philadelphia Racquet Club, where he led three separate tennis teams on tours of England and France. He also was a founding member of the Dickens Inn Pickwick Club, where he reveled in conviviality and friendship which would sustain him for the rest of his life. He married Claudia McNamara (née Byram) in 1984, and together they built a nurturing and loving home in Mount Holly, where they hosted famous Christmas, Easter, birthday, and ‘no-special-occasion’ parties with their steadily expanding family and circle of friends. During his later years, John led the Rancocas Creek Association, for 14 years, maintaining and nurturing the natural environment of the creek that flowed past his home. John is survived by his children: Charles, Catherine, and Elizabeth, and his seven cherished grandchildren: Nicholas, Isabelle, Khalif, Emily, Liam, John Henry, and Bronwyn. He was preceded in death by his sons John Benjamin McNamara and Paul Riihiluoma, whose memories are held deep in the family’s hearts. He had previously been married to Cindy Gommel, 1968 to 1980, and before that to Gill Riihiluoma. John believed in the immutable power of integrity, embracing life to its fullest, and in the pivotal role of family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, May 4, 11:00 at St. Andrews Episcopal Church, 121 High St., Mount Holly. Relatives and friends may attend his visitation on Saturday from 9:30-10:30 AM at Perinchief Chapels, 438 High St., Mt. Holly. The McNamara family appreciates the support and love they have received in this time of grief. In lieu of flowers please make any donations in honor of John’s memory to the non-profit organization, Rancocas Creek Association, LLC. 3 Birch Avenue, Mount Holly NJ 08060.

John Walter McNamara

August 14, 1932 - April 29, 2024