John Cashen Obituary

Obituary: Dr. John J. Cashen, D.M.D. (1947–2025) Dr. John J. Cashen, D.M.D., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed member of his community, passed away at his home on Dataw Island, South Carolina, on September 16, 2025. He was 78 years old, surrounded by the love of family and friends. Born on July 19, 1947, in Dover, New Jersey, John was the eldest child of Anna and Vincent Cashen. He graduated from St. Michael's College in Vermont and earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania in 1972. For over three decades, he served the Chester, New Jersey community through his private dental practice, where he became known for his clinical excellence, unwavering integrity, and deep compassion for his patients. He was honored as a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction that reflected both his professional skill and his dedication to continued learning. John lived a life defined by purpose, curiosity, and joy. A lifelong lover of the water, he found peace and renewal in sailing, boating, and saltwater fishing-particularly in Nantucket, a place he held close to his heart. He was equally at home in the woods of Green Swamp, where he nurtured a passion for hunting and fishing that connected him to nature, tradition, and enduring friendships. John was a licensed U.S. Merchant Marine Master of Steam or Motor Vessels and held a Master of Passenger Vessels license, reflecting both his adventurous spirit and exacting standards. His sense of service extended far beyond his profession. He held leadership roles in numerous organizations, including past President of the Jaycees of Long Valley, N.J., past Commodore of the Dataw Island Yacht Club, and past President of the Dataw Island Owners Association. He was also a committed volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, demonstrating his lifelong dedication to giving back and helping others. John is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Josephine Cashen; their two children, Dr. David V. Cashen and Claire C. Ventura; his sister, Mary Purcell; and five grandchildren: Samantha, Natalie, and Skyler Ventura, and Madeline and Lucinda Cashen. His grandchildren were the light of his life-the source of his greatest joy and pride. He was a steadfast and loving presence in their lives, always listening, encouraging, and guiding with humility and wisdom. The bonds he forged with each of them were rooted in trust, respect, and deep affection. In their laughter, growth, and dreams, John found lasting purpose and peace. Through them, his legacy of love, strength, and quiet grace endures. A Mass celebrating his life will be held on October 3rd at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Beaufort, South Carolina. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. John will be remembered for his steadfast character, deep intellect, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. His absence leaves a profound void, but his spirit lives on in the many lives he touched and the enduring love he gave.