Jonathan Lee Persing, age 70, of Red Lion, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of his family, on Sunday, May 3, 2026. Born in York on September 18, 1955, he was the son of the late Joseph and Jean (Howard) Persing. He was the loving husband and best friend of 50 years to Shelly Kay (Smith) Persing; they were married on August 23, 1975, and built a life together grounded in love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

Known by friends and family as Jon, he was a 1973 graduate of Red Lion High School. He went to work for his family’s business, Mastercraft Specialties in Red Lion, where he took great pride in continuing the family tradition. He later served the community as the code enforcement officer for Red Lion Borough, a role in which he was known for his fairness and dedication.

Jon attended Church of the Open Door – West York Campus. He was an avid history buff who enjoyed reading and memorizing local historic markers and signs, always eager to share what he had learned. He had a deep appreciation for fine woodcrafts through his family business, which led him to furniture refinishing—a hobby that brought him great satisfaction. He enjoyed game shows and watching the O’s play baseball, but what brought him the greatest joy was time spent with his family—especially cheering on his grandchildren at their games and being present for the moments that mattered most. His family was the center of his world, and he treasured every moment spent with them.

In addition to his wife, Shelly, Jon is survived by his son, Joseph R. Persing, and his wife, Michelle; his daughter, Kristin, and her husband, Michael Sweitzer; his grandchildren, Honor and her husband, Charlie; Mercy; Patience; Noble; Justice; Valor; Courage; Mitchell; Sammy Jon; Will; and Millie; and his great-grandchildren, Adelaide and Felix. He is also survived by his siblings, Joel H. Persing, Jay B. Persing, Jennifer Persing Snyder, Jill Persing McKinley, Judy Persing Gue, and Joan Persing Mackley. He was preceded in death by his beloved twin daughters, Angela and Andrea Persing.

A celebration of Jon’s life will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Church of the Open Door – West York Campus, 8 Carlisle Court, York.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jon’s memory may be made to Church of the Open Door, 8 Carlisle Court, York, PA 17408 (please write Open Door Youth on check memo), or to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center at giving@pennstatehealth.psu.edu. Condolences may be shared at www.wagner-elfner-burg.com, where friends and family are invited to leave memories, stories, and messages of comfort in celebration of Jon’s life and the love he shared so freely.