Yorktown mourns poet laureate John McMullen

A longtime poet, educator, and community figure in Yorktown, John F. McMullen died on April 17 at the age of 86.

Known as “johnmac the bard,” McMullen served as Yorktown’s poet laureate, a role he was appointed to in 2018. Through poetry and public writing, he created work rooted in language, memory, and place, shaped in part by his upbringing in Inwood, Manhattan.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Iona College, followed by a Master of Science in computer science and a Master of Public Administration from Marist College. He began his professional career as a computer programmer with the Department of the Army before advancing into executive technology roles with firms including Dean Witter & Co., Davidson Computer Services, BTSI, and Morgan Stanley.

A prolific writer and educator, McMullen published more than 20 poetry collections and contributed to literary journals in the United States and Europe, according to his obituary. His work often blended personal history with reflections on culture and community, including “The Inwood Book.”

He also worked as a teacher, journalist, and technologist, holding degrees in English literature, computer science, and public administration. McMullen taught at New York University, The New School, and SUNY campuses. In addition, he co-founded a technology consulting firm with his wife, Barbara McMullen, balancing creative and professional work while remaining active in academic and artistic circles.

McMullen’s legacy is defined by curiosity, creativity, and a commitment to storytelling. In Yorktown, he was known for promoting poetry in public life and encouraging appreciation of the arts through his role as poet laureate.

“John knew that creativity — especially with the arts and poetry— needs outlets,” Town Supervisor Ed Lachterman said. “He was a unique individual, full of love, passion for the arts, and very religious. He really was able to influence so many people.”

Councilman Sergio Esposito recalled the first time McMullen asked him at a Town Board meeting to read his poems on his behalf, noting that he immediately replied that it would be his honor.

“It was a pleasure getting to know John over the past few years, he was truly an accomplished and inspiring man,” Esposito said. “John was a genuinely great person, and I will certainly miss him. Rest in eternal peace, my friend.”