John Alister Mapp, 86, of Reading, PA, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Sinking Spring Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (Genesis). Born on November 2, 1939, in Barbados, West Indies, he was the beloved son of the late Eleen A. Perry and Byron Odle.
In Barbados, John dedicated many years to his career as a telegrapher and customs clerk with Cable and Wireless. It was during this time that he cultivated many of his lifelong friendships, known for his professionalism and camaraderie. After immigrating to the United States, John brought his trademark work ethic to Kmart, Sears, and ProBerco. At ProBerco, John truly found a calling; his natural charm, wit, and deep compassion made him an exceptional care worker for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism. He was a favorite among coworkers, customers, and clients alike.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, John was a true competitor who excelled in cricket, football (soccer), basketball, and darts. His love for the game extended to the racetrack; he was a familiar face at the Garrison Savannah in Barbados and later at the Hollywood Casino in Morgantown. Above all, he was a devoted fan of his Philadelphia Eagles and Sixers, never missing a chance to cheer them on.
John’s endearing spirit will be carried on by his children: Wayne Jordan (Barbados), Rawle Wood and his wife Franca (Canada), Mark Mapp and his wife Dionne (Reading), Joy Mapp and her wife Becky Swem (Vermont), Keisha Thompson Worrell and her husband Carlysle (Barbados), and Khaj Thompson (Barbados).
He is also survived by his siblings: Betty Perch (Reading), Yvette Mapp, Carson Mapp, and Andrew Mapp (all of NY); his former wife, Betty Mapp (Barbados); and his cherished grandchildren: Ashley, Justin, and Mathew Wood; Diondra Mapp; Khalissa Thompson; and Kylan Mapp Swem. John was predeceased by his brother, Llewelyn Mapp (NY) and his step-son Harold Parris (Barbados). He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Service Information
A viewing will be held Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM at Theo C. Auman Funeral Home, 247 Penn St., Reading, PA 19601. A homegoing service will promptly commence at 4:00 PM. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be streamed via the Facebook page of Theo C. Auman Inc.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.TheoCAuman.com for the Mapp family.
