John E. Herbert, Jr.

John E. Herbert, Jr., 65, passed away peacefully in his Brooksville, Florida home he shared with his beloved partner, Debi Edwards, on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.  Debi, his daughter Corrigan, and his step-daughter Jamie were by his side.

John was born and raised in Auburn, NY, the son of the late John “Jack” Herbert, Sr. and Dorothy (Jahn) Herbert. He was also predeceased by his brother, James P. Herbert, and sister-in-law, Joanne Herbert.

John was a 1978 graduate of Auburn High School. He went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s degree in Administration from Alfred University.   His career led him into the field of information technology, where he served as an IT Project Manager bringing strong leadership, calm problem-solving, and a dependable work ethic to every role he held.

John appreciated the outdoors, cherishing his time boating and fishing on both Owasco and Lamoka Lakes. He enjoyed cooking and grilling for family and friends, and was happiest when sharing good food, fabulous music, and great company. Live music, in particular, was something that filled him with joy.

One of John’s greatest personal accomplishments was his dedication to the martial arts. He earned his 1st-degree black belt in Chidokwan Karate in 1989 and ultimately achieved his 4th-degree black belt in 2022. He was a highly respected karate instructor for many years in Alfred, NY, shaping countless students with his discipline, patience, and passion for the art.

John is survived by his significant other, Debi Edwards; his daughter, Corrigan (Sam) Benzakein; his step-children, Jamie (Paul Jr.) Wernicke and Travis (Christina)  Bunner. He is also survived by his siblings: Iris (Russell) Young, Bill (Sharon) Herbert, Patrick Herbert; and several nieces and nephews who loved him dearly, Robert “Bear” Coly, Marissa Young, Riley Young, Sean Herbert, Kaitlin Herbert, Anna Herbert, and Kyle Herbert, and many cousins.

Memorial contributions in memory of John may be made to Lustgarten Pancreatic Cancer Research,  https://lustgarten.org/?form=give

John will be remembered for his kindness he gave so freely to those he loved. His presence will be deeply missed by family, friends, students, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. A full celebration of John’s life will be planned at a later date.

Please visit www.Langhamfuneralhomellc.com to leave a condolence for the family.  

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