Throughout his lifetime, he thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors, spending many hours on the family property in South Carolina, camping, and hiking. His free spirit led him to hitchhike to Oregon, participate in the Vietnam anti-war demonstrations in Washington, D.C., personally build his own home, and live his life on his own terms, rather than adhering to conventional norms. His generous nature allowed him to impact so many of those around him.

 

He received his BA in Political Science from NCSU in 1972, and his law degree from Wake Forest University in 1975. His passions were cooking, family, and woodworking, specializing in historical renovations. He lived most of his life in Greensboro, NC, putting his children and his work first, while never forgetting his South Carolina heritage.

John is predeceased by his parents; as well as his sister, Cynthia Jean Zeliff (class of 1966). He is survived by his children, Dawn Zeliff, Karyh Maturino (Jorge) and Leary Troy (Jenny); six grandchildren; as well as his brother, Robert (Gale) and family.