Leland, North Carolina, September 10, 2025
News Summary
John Everett Oliver, Jr., a distinguished NOAA executive, passed away at 75. Known for his integral role in marine fisheries and community support, Oliver’s legacy includes significant awards and contributions to both professional and personal realms. His dedication to the NOAA and the local community in Leland, NC, will be remembered fondly.
Leland, North Carolina — John Everett Oliver, Jr., a well-respected executive at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and a cherished member of his community, passed away suddenly at home on September 5, 2025. He was 75 years old.
Known affectionately as “J.O.” by friends and “Jack” by family, Oliver’s life was marked by significant accomplishments in both his professional and personal domains. He was born on April 21, 1950, in Washington, D.C., to Erma Opal Lynch and John E. Oliver, Sr. Oliver grew up in Kensington, Maryland, where he developed a passion for sports, notably starring as a baseball player at Albert Einstein High School. He played third base on the championship team in 1967, which was honored by being inducted into the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2017.
Oliver’s commitment to serving his country was evident; he served in the U.S. Army Reserves at Fort Meade from 1971 to 1977. After high school, he continued his education at the University of Maryland, College Park, before embarking on an impressive career at NOAA, which spanned nearly 40 years. Starting as a payroll clerk in 1973, he worked his way up through various budget analyst roles, eventually becoming the Deputy Assistant Administrator of the National Marine Fisheries Service in 2011. In this capacity, he oversaw a billion-dollar budget and managed thousands of employees.
In 1998, Oliver joined NOAA’s Senior Executive Service, earning accolades throughout his career, including the 2008 Presidential Rank Award for Meritorious Senior Executive Service. His leadership was especially noted during critical change initiatives and crises within NOAA. He was an avid supporter of the NOAA Corps and initiatives like Teacher at Sea, showing a commitment to both current and future generations.
Oliver’s personal life was equally noteworthy. He married his lifelong love, Cheryl, on February 29, 2004, in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. They shared a deep passion for professional sports, attending numerous games throughout their time together. While residing in Silver Spring for most of their careers, they decided to retire in Leland, North Carolina. Oliver remained active in his local community, contributing to various charities and educational institutions, particularly supporting East Carolina University’s Coastal Studies Institute.
As a dedicated sports fan, Oliver was a lifelong supporter of the Washington Redskins. He attended four of the team’s five Super Bowl games and never missed a home game for over 40 years. Additionally, he had a fondness for cigars and bourbon, particularly Maker’s Mark, and harbored a keen interest in World War II history, often traveling to significant locations to commemorate important anniversaries related to the war.
John Everett Oliver, Jr., is survived by his wife, Cheryl Ann Oliver; his siblings and their spouses; nieces; and a multitude of extended family members in Virginia. A series of celebration of life events have been planned in Leland, Silver Spring, and Hixburg. In his memory, donations can be made to the National WWII Museum in New Orleans and East Carolina University’s Coastal Studies Institute.
FAQs
What was John Everett Oliver, Jr.’s age at the time of his passing?
He was 75 years old.
What notable awards did John receive during his career?
He received the 2008 Presidential Rank Award for Meritorious Senior Executive Service and was recognized as a leader during significant initiatives and crises at NOAA.
When and where did John marry?
John married Cheryl on February 29, 2004, in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.
What activities did John enjoy outside of his professional life?
He was a lifelong fan of the Washington Redskins, enjoyed cigars and bourbon, and had a keen interest in World War II history.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Remembering John Everett Oliver, Jr.: A Legacy of Environmental Stewardship
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: John Oliver
- Tribute Archive: Leland G. Oliver
- Pellerin Funeral Home: Leland Arnaud
- Wikipedia: John Oliver
- Google Search: John Oliver NOAA
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