John A Feist

Hillsborough resident, John A. Feist, age 73, passed away on January 1, 2026, surrounded by family.

Born in New York City on February 29, 1952, John built a long and respected career as an IT consultant. His work took him around the world, where he played a vital role in supporting complex systems for major organizations. Notably, he was part of the team that helped keep American Express Bank functioning in the aftermath of September 11, 2001.

Beyond his professional life, John was a passionate photographer and an active member of the Hillsborough Digital Photographic Society. He found joy in the smallest of things and beauty in the ordinary. John never missed an opportunity to sneak in a visual pun. His love of the outdoors began at an early age and continued throughout his life. That love was shared through the images he captured through his photography. Each holiday season, family and friends cherished gifts of annual calendars featuring John’s art.

Photography was just one of John’s many hobbies. Friends and family enjoyed John’s skill in the kitchen. He mastered cuisine from all corners of the world. Business trips to India inspired not only some of his culinary creations, but also an interest in yoga. As a dedicated yoga practitioner, he shared his training with others.

As a boy when promised a toy train, he begrudgingly learned German – eventually speaking both German and French fluently long into adulthood. These skills came in handy for his international career and travel.

He met his wife Stephanie Gallagher and their friendship blossomed into more than 46 years of marriage. With the addition of his two beloved daughters, Courtney and Kate, he had a rich family life.

John is survived by his wife Stephanie Gallagher Feist, daughters, Courtney Campbell (Brian Spadea) and Kate Driscoll (John Driscoll). He loved his latest role as an Opa to his grandchildren, Hanna, Eve, Lillie, and William Driscoll.

Other surviving family members include his sister and brother-in-law, Sue and Pete Del Monaco, and his brother and sister-in-law John and Andrea Gallagher. Nieces and nephews are Peter Michael (Genesis Mota) Del Monaco, Ashley Nicole (John) Campbell, Frank Thomas Gallagher, Krista Gallagher. Great nieces and nephews include Mason Anthony, Mia Jane, Jackson Travis, Maeve Riley and Bryson Lorenzo.

Donations in John’s name may be made to the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, Donate Online, or the Loyola Retreat House, Donate Online.

Memorial service will be planned for the spring.