Leland, North Carolina, September 9, 2025
News Summary
John Everett Oliver, Jr., a respected leader in environmental stewardship and former NOAA Deputy Assistant Administrator, passed away unexpectedly at 75. His career spanned nearly four decades, marked by major contributions to marine research and education. Oliver was not only recognized for his professional achievements but also for his mentorship within the NOAA community and dedication to philanthropic efforts. He is survived by his wife, family, and many who admired his commitment to the environment.
Leland, North Carolina – John Everett Oliver, Jr., a respected leader in environmental stewardship, passed away unexpectedly at his home on September 5, 2025, at the age of 75. Originally from Washington, D.C., Oliver was a prominent figure in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), where he dedicated 40 years of service before retiring in 2011.
Born on April 21, 1950, Oliver grew up in Kensington, Maryland. In high school, he was an accomplished baseball player, contributing to the championship team of Albert Einstein High School, which achieved a perfect season in 1967. Following graduation in 1968, he attended the University of Maryland, College Park, and served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1971 to 1977 at Fort Meade.
Olive began his career at NOAA in 1973 as a payroll clerk and quickly climbed the ranks to become the deputy assistant administrator of the National Marine Fisheries Service. In this role, he managed a billion-dollar budget and oversaw thousands of employees, playing a crucial part in navigating the organization through significant changes and crises. He was honored with the 2008 Presidential Rank Award for Meritorious Senior Executive Service, a testament to his leadership and impact within the agency.
Beyond his professional achievements, Oliver was known as a mentor and a family member within the NOAA community, admired for his integrity and dedication to environmental causes. He played an instrumental role in various NOAA programs, including Teacher at Sea, which enhances education about marine ecosystems.
Personal life played an important role in Oliver’s story. He met his wife, Cheryl Ann Oliver, at a NOAA-sponsored event. The couple married on February 29, 2004, and spent considerable time in Silver Spring, Maryland, and the Outer Banks of North Carolina before retiring in Leland.
Oliver’s passion for giving back was evident in his support for various charities and educational institutions, notably East Carolina University. He was an avid fan of the Washington Commanders and celebrated their appearances in four Super Bowls. In addition, he enjoyed cigar and bourbon tasting, with Maker’s Mark being his preferred brand.
His interests extended to history, particularly World War II, prompting him to travel to significant sites to commemorate important anniversaries of the conflict. Oliver is survived by his wife, Cheryl, siblings Joanna and Terry Good, Lynn and Richard Petty, Caroline and Lyle Schofield, nieces Annette and Dianna Petty, and mother-in-law Jane Huntzberry.
A series of celebration of life events will be held in Leland, Silver Spring, and Hixburg to honor Oliver’s legacy. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National WWII Museum and East Carolina University Coastal Studies Institute.
Key Achievements
- Served as Deputy Assistant Administrator at NOAA
- Recipient of the 2008 Presidential Rank Award
- Mentor within the NOAA community
- Contributed to major programs like Teacher at Sea
Background Information
John Everett Oliver, Jr. was a driving force in NOAA for decades, significantly affecting environmental policy and education. His commitment to marine research and education left a lasting impact on countless individuals and organizations dedicated to preserving the planet.
Summary of John Everett Oliver, Jr.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 21, 1950 |
| Date of Passing | September 5, 2025 |
| Career | NOAA Deputy Assistant Administrator |
| Awards | 2008 Presidential Rank Award |
| Spouse | Cheryl Ann Oliver |
| Interests | World War II history, bourbon tasting |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Andrews Mortuary: Gary Scheer
- Legacy: Joann Johnston
- Dignity Memorial: Regina Horrell
- Google Search: John Everett Oliver NOAA
- Wikipedia: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
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