It is with sadness that we announce the passing of John Anthony Gorbett, a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who left us peacefully on June 30, 2026 at the age of 84 in Newport News, VA. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, John lived a life marked by kindness, integrity, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends.
He entered the United States Navy in 1963 and served his country until his honorable discharge in 1969. During his time abroad while stationed in Okinawa, he began a relationship with his future wife and life-long partner of 60 years, Yukiko. He was a devoted member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and his faith was a central part of his life for over 50 years. He served as an elder in the congregation and found tremendous joy sharing his beliefs with others. For 45 years he owned and operated his own consumer electronics repair business, Color and Sound, Inc. He also served as President of the Virginia Electronics Association during his time in business. Outside of work, he found joy playing golf, attending family gatherings, and spending time with his grandchildren.
John was preceded in death by his parents, John Richard Dey, Thelma Charlotte Reitmann-Dey Gorbett, stepfather Rolando Gorbett, and daughter April Lynn Hall.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Yukiko Gorbett; his sons, Michael Gorbett and his wife Tammy, and John Robert Gorbett and his wife Donna, and his son-in-law, Bill Hall, husband of his late daughter, April Hall; his grandchildren Evan (child of John and Donna Gorbett), Jacob, AJ, Kayla (children of Bill and April Hall), and Tyler (child of Michael and Tammy Gorbett). He is also survived by his brother, Ronald Gorbett, sister, Vicki Gorbett, and brother-in-law, Thomas Sandor.
A private memorial service, limited to family and close friends, will be held in his honor at the Peninsula Funeral Home & Crematory. Special thanks to the dedicated staff at Charter Senior Living of Newport News and The Hidenwood for their compassion and assistance while he was in their care. The family appreciates your thoughts, prayers, and support during this difficult time.
7 Comments
Condolences for the family God be with you at this time
My wife and I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Gorbett family.
John was the very first member of the Oyster Point congregation my wife (Sheila ) and I met, and from that moment on, he proved to be a fine example of a spiritual brother to both of us. In the short time we knew him, we learned so much from him. Whenever I had an assignment, I knew I could turn to John for assistance. He was always willing, always steady, and always kind.I have many cherished memories of our time together in the ministry—working side by side, sharing encouragement, and then enjoying a simple lunch break afterward. I always admired the way John carried himself as an elder. His calm dignity, his humility, and his readiness to offer spiritual advice whenever I asked made a lasting impression on me.John’s example will continue to influence our lifs, and I’m grateful Jehovah allowed our paths to cross.
Just like to share our condolences with the family and let them know that they are in our prayers. Had fond memories of going on golf trips with John. He will be missed.
To Our Dearest Family of Our Beloved Brother,Husband,Father,Grandfather and Sibling and Our Spiritual Beloved Brother It Saddened Us to Hear of Your Precious Loss.What we Appreciated about him is his Strong Conviction in Jehovah.He Valued Jesus’s Words at John11:11..He Will sleep .and That Our Father Jehovah has Given his Son Jesus the Authority to Awaken Him Very Soon.John5:28,29 …He firmly believed..Yes indeed he Was an Inspiration,And Loved Deeply.To His Family We Send Our Warmest LOVE!
We extend our condolences to the entire Gorbett family. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you navigate this difficult time. May time and memories bring you comfort along with the hope of seeing our loved ones again in perfect health in God’s New System!
I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the Gorbett family.
John was the very first member of the Oyster Point congregation my wife (Sheila) and I met, and from that moment on, he proved to be a fine example of a spiritual brother to both of us. In the short time we knew John, and his wife Yuki, we learned so much from them. Whenever I had an assignment, I knew I could turn to John for assistance. He was always willing, always steady, and always kind.I have many cherished memories of our time together in the ministry—working side by side, sharing encouragement, and then enjoying a simple lunch break afterward. I always admired the way John carried himself as an elder. His calm dignity, his humility, and his readiness to offer spiritual advice whenever I asked. Bro. Gorbett made a lasting impression on my family. John’s example will continue to influence our life, and I’m grateful Jehovah allowed our paths to cross.
We would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the Gorbett family.
John was the very first member of the Oyster Point congregation my wife ( Sheila) and I met, and from that moment on, he proved to be a fine example of a spiritual brother to both of us. In the short time we knew him, we learned so much from him. Whenever I had an assignment, I knew I could turn to John for assistance. He was always willing, always steady, and always kind. I have many cherished memories of our time together in the ministry—working side by side, sharing encouragement, and then enjoying a simple lunch break afterward. I always admired the way John carried himself as an elder. His calm dignity, his humility, and his readiness to offer spiritual advice whenever I asked made a lasting impression on me. John’s example will continue to influence my life, and I’m grateful Jehovah allowed our paths to cross.