Stillwater, OK - Born April 19, 1933 in Albion, Idaho to J Vard Chatburn and Eva (Lemon), John was raised on the family cattle ranch and graduated from Albion High School. After graduation, he served in the U.S. Army. John returned to Albion and his sister, Jeannine, introduced him to his future wife of 68 years, Charlotte A. Cotton, from Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Charlotte had been recruited to teach in Murtaugh, Idaho. They were married on December 29, 1957. They soon after moved to Morrison, Oklahoma for Charlotte to teach and John to pursue his teaching certificate. He very much enjoyed teaching and coaching the girls basketball team for which in 1974 he received the areas Coach of the Year honor. He became Principal at Morrison High School and a fond story from that time is when he took the senior class on a snow skiing trip. After retiring from teaching, he and Charlotte pursued their second favorite thing, golf. They, with friends traveled to golf and see the United States.

He is survived by his wife, Charlotte; his sister, Jeannine Bennett; and many nieces and nephews.

Burial will be September 29, 2025 in a private family service at Sallisaw City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to MCDA (Morrison Community Development Association).