John Everett Strayhorn

A funeral service for John E. Strayhorn of Watertown will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at 4:30 PM at the MacDonald Rockwell & MacDonald Funeral Home, 270 Main Street, Watertown.

John passed away unexpectedly on December 2, 2025, at the age of 65. He was the beloved son of the late Milton E. and Lorna M. (Smith) Strayhorn.

A lifelong resident of Watertown, John graduated from Watertown High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically. He was especially proud of his achievements on the football field and was honored as a member of the Watertown Football Hall of Fame.

John was known for his warm heart, his love of animals—especially his dogs—and his enthusiasm for all things Star Wars. He was an avid music fan, with a particular fondness for The Who and The Tubes. John worked for many years at Raytheon as a paint application specialist, where he was respected for his dedication and strong work ethic.

John is lovingly remembered by his brothers, William F. Strayhorn and his wife Linda J. of Framingham, and Richard C. Strayhorn and his wife Linda M. of Watertown. He was a caring uncle to Paula Nicole Carito, Richard C. Strayhorn, Jr., Michael Gardner, Jr., and Gregory Gardner, and a devoted great-uncle to Melody Strayhorn.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM at the MacDonald Rockwell & MacDonald Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service at 4:30 PM. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend.

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