Age 78 of Portsmouth, passed away Friday, April 7, 2017 at Best Care Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Wheelersburg. He was born July 10, 1938 in Sciotoville to Howard and June (Abrams) Hutchens. A 1956 graduate of Portsmouth East High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and honorably served his country aboard the U.S.S. Yosemite AD-19, a destroyer repair ship stationed in Newport, RI. John worked for the state of Ohio as a Jobs and Family Services Manager. He was an accomplished, self-taught woodworker and was very interested in history, especially the United States Civil War era. He spent many years as a coach for the Sciotoville Little League and Senior League baseball teams and was a "religious" Ohio State Buckeye fan. As a member of the Wheelersburg Western Sun Lodge, John attained the level of 32nd Degree Mason.

He is survived by his wife, Linda (Elliott) Hutchens of Portsmouth; son, Pat (Melissa) Hutchens of Portsmouth; grandson, Andrew John Hutchens of Portsmouth. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday April 12, 2017 at WOLFE-NELSON FUNERAL HOME in Sciotoville with Pastor Andy Dawes, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow at Memorial Burial Park in Wheelersburg with military rites provided by James Dickey Post #23, American Legion. Friends may call Tuesday, April 11th from 5 - 7 at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. A Masonic Service will be held at 7:00 following the visitation. Online condolences may be left at www.WolfeNelsonFuneralHome.com.