Pastor John Calvin Dancer, 70, of Somerville, went home to be with his Lord April 2 while surrounded by his loving family at home.
Born March 8, 1948 in Gardiner, he was the son of John L. and Helen Brawn Dancer. John attended Glen Cove Christian Academy, graduating in 1967. Following high school, John married his long-time sweetheart, Donna Roberts, whom he had started dating when he was 16 years old. On May 16, 1970, the pair were married in Carmel, N.Y. Attending Northeastern Bible College in Essex Fells, N.J., John earned a Bachelor of Arts in Bible and later a Theology Degree.
For many years, Pastor Dancer filled pulpits along the East Coast, serving first as an assistant pastor at Old First Church in Cedar Grove, N.J. Later he pastored at East Wilton Baptist Church and then Charlotte Baptist Church in Charlotte. For over 32 years John has been sharing his love of Jesus with the congregation at South Somerville Baptist Church.
John’s greatest joy in life was his family. He loved nothing more than spending time with them, especially camping trips and working around the house. He took greatly enjoyed gardening and was an avid reader.
He will be sadly missed by all who loved him.
He was predeceased by his father; and sister, Janey Dancer.
John is survived by mother, Helen Dancer of Whitefield; wife, Donna; sons, Johnathan Dancer, and Joshua Dancer, all of Somerville; daughter, Susan Batty and husband Bill of Spruce Head; sister, Lois Bourque and husband Steve of Whitefield; grandchildren, Julia, Nathaniel and Matthew Batty, and Grace, Hannah and Benjamin Dancer; many nieces and nephews; and two great-nieces and great-nephews.
Family and friends were invited to visit April 7 at South Somerville Baptist Church, Rt. 17, where a Home-Going Celebration was held. Pastor Brian Richie officiated.
Those who wish may make memorial donations to South Somerville Baptist Church, 8 Hewett Rd., Somerville, ME 04348.
Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock St., Rockland.
