John Joseph Cyr Jr.

OLD ORCHARD BEACH – John Joseph Cyr, Jr. died July 23, 2022 at his home in Old Orchard Beach, surrounded by close family and an attending physician.

He was born in Salem, Mass. to John Joseph Cyr, Sr. and Constance “Connie” Conant Cyr on July 6, 1947. John attended South Portland schools and graduated from South Portland High School in 1967.

He was a cast member on the show “Club 13” and helped to form the band “The Forbidden,” for which he performed as lead singer and wrote and recorded a track called “My Silent Prayer.”

After graduating high school, John served in the U.S. Air Force from 1969 to 1972. His varied work history included 9-1-1 Communications Operator, groundskeeper at Forest City Cemetery, and an Emery Waterhouse Distribution Customer Fulfillment Associate.

John never married or had children. He had a very significant other in Shirley Harding from Old Orchard. They spent many joyous years together, an she provided him with outstanding care throughout his illnesses.

His interests included music, all sports (he ran marathons), writing, and fantasy and science fiction novels and movies. John finished his children’s book “Mr. Kringle and the Forest of Forever” the morning he passed away.

John was predeceased by both of his parents; and half-brother, Hal Henesy.

He is survived by his half-sister, Wanda Whitten, half-brother, Donald Poore, former brother-in-law, Gregory Whitten; nephew, Clifton Whitten; and longtime spiritual advisor, Anna Harriman.

A special thank you to all of the considerate “angels” who invested in John’s quality of being and helped him end his life how he desired. John asked that people not mourn him but instead raise a glass and/or a pipe in honor of a life well lived and loved.

Arrangements were made by Cremation of Southern Maine in Portland. John requested that there be no formal services. His immediate family will distribute his ashes in locations of personal joy to him at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to

Hospice of Southern Maine, Paralyzed Veterans of America, ASPCA, or

your choice of charity.