Obituary
Guest Book
John Rodney Courtright
John (78), a lifelong resident of his beloved Arlington County, passed away Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017, surrounded by love. He was a graduate of Washington-Lee High school, Randolph Macon College, and American University graduate school. John retired from a career in civil service, the Dept. of Defense, Dept. of Army and as a Colonel from the Army Reserve. He had a big personality full of love for family and life. He was generous, gregarious, he loved people and their stories. John was passionate about local and military history. He was a member of the Arlington Rotary Club and of the Alpine and Nordic ski patrols. He is survived by his beloved wife, Suzanne, daughters Carolyn Smith and Christine Dolan, 4 grandchildren - James and Cathleen Smith, Suzanne and John Thomas Dolan, sons-in-law Michael Smith Tom Dolan, brother and sister-in-law Steve and Sandee Davis and nieces and nephews in Virginia, Texas, and Colorado. Graveside services will be held at Arlington National Cemetery, with full military honors, on Tuesday, February 20, 2018, at 3:00 PM. Those attending will need to be at the Administration Building, no less than 45 minutes before service time. Donations in memory of John may be made to: Arlington Historical Society, 1805 S. Arlington Ridge Rd., Arlington, VA 22202.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Murphy Funeral Homes.
February 16, 2018
Mary Kay (Garnett) Montgomery
John was a classmate and friend at W-L. We will all sorely miss his smile and positive fun ways. I am sorry to miss his burial at Arlington and offer my condolences to his family.
October 8, 2017
Coworker
Harry Rensel
John, and I were close friends. We first met in 1993 in the Pentagon, where we both worked for the Army Chief Signal Officer. John, worked in a different office, but we became friends quickly. We would have lunches together and talk about office politics, The Poor Redskins, and the Army Staff. John, was a pleasant co-worker to be with, he made you feel good about the days events, even when they were unpleasant.
While John retired in 1999? He, and I stayed in touch. We both were involved in the Virginia Gun Collectors Association, and attended the monthly meetings. John, would say" They have the best warm soda, and cold pizza that I ever ate" :-) He was always making you laugh! while the years passed we were always, in touch and visited with our families. John, was a longtime friend and will be dearly missed by his family and close friends. Thank you Brother John, for being my good close friend over all the years, God Bless You. Harry Rensel
October 3, 2017
Tom Dickinson
John was one of the nicest people I've ever had the pleasure to know. We were on the Arlington Civil War Sesquicentennial Commemoration Committee together...and John's interest and enthusiasm were outstanding. However, most of all, I was always grateful for his interest in and encouragement for my son, who is an officer in the U.S. military. John never failed to ask about him and offer good advice and insights. I will REALLY miss him, in so many ways! And as a member of the Arlington Historical Society Board of Directors and Past President, I am very grateful for his request that donations in his memory go to AHS. He has thereby ensured a lasting legacy, well deserved!
Tom Dickinson
September 24, 2017
George Kolesar
John, you can't die! You are one of the brightest, most friendly, and professional people I have ever met. You helped me through some tough personal problems in my life and I will never forget your wise guidance. Your bubbly personality helped many of us in the Pentagon keep our heads on straight. We all owe you an enormous amount of gratitude. Dear friend, rest in peace and know that we will always remember your thoughtful support.
September 22, 2017
joseph INMAN
John was the best, a true human being who cared about the people around him. He and Suzanne took such good care of me when I had replacement knee surgery years ago. I will miss him LOTS and our banter.
September 22, 2017
Jack Looney
I only knew Col. Courtright through VGCA functions, but I had some very nice, and interesting, conversations with him. I just may have learned a thing, or three... or more! His presence and his knowledge will be sorely missed.
September 21, 2017
Richard Feirman
COL. John was a true gentleman. His knowledge of foreign affairs and United Stated military policy was unsurpassed. At the VGCA club meetings,we would discuss world events after the lectures. A great historian, and a great friend always willing to help. He was proud to be an Army Officer, and serve our country proudly. One time we were talking about retirement and if he enjoyed it. With a smile on his face, he repeated the following; " When these days of strife are over
And my work down here is done,
I'll set down my rifle forever
On the airdrome of the sun,
Where that Greater One keeps vigil,
Our C.O., our Flying Boss,
He whose wingspread fills the heavens
From Polaris to the Cross."
R.I.P. John. You will be missed!
September 21, 2017
John Frietsch
All my condolences to the Courtright family. I last saw John at the VGCA meeting in June, and he had the same big smile on his face as the photo above. I can tell you he will be missed by his friends in the club. May the Lord bless all of you in John's family.
September 21, 2017
Wolff and I are very sad to hear of John's passing. We hope that you and all the family will be comforted by wonderful memories. Rhea Schwartz & Paul Wolff ( Chevy Chase, MD)
September 21, 2017
Scott Elkins
Somehow I lost track of this fine fellow who always seemed to be smiling. A huge regret now that he is gone.
My heartfelt condolences and best wishes to the family
September 21, 2017
We are very sorry for your loss. When we lose someone who's been such a big part of our lives for so long, we may wonder if we will ever feel better. Please know how much you are loved, not only by family and friends, but also by the God of all comfort who cares deeply for you in this difficult time.
September 21, 2017
Suzanne, Christine & Caroline:
I am stunned and at a loss of meaningful words on learning of the death of John. Sharing life as a neighbor, a fellow Reserve Army Officer, a true friend, I am saddened that such a wonderful man and life has passed but to know he is at peace with his lord provides comfort. My thoughts and prayers are with you all and may God guide you through this loss.
Bill Smith, Col, USA Ret
September 21, 2017
Beyer Automotive Group
John was a welcome presence in our showroom and always had a smile and a kind word. He will be missed by all who experienced his countenance.
September 21, 2017
My deepest condolences for the loss of your loved one. May you find comfort in the promise of God found at 1 Peter 5:6,7
California~~
September 21, 2017
My condolences to the family. May the peace of God and the fond memories you cherish comfort and sustain you in your time of need.
-RM
September 20, 2017
Paula Kane
Carolyn: I'm sorry for your loss. Your father seemed to be a fun person, as you also are. Will keep your family in my prayers.
September 20, 2017
Janet and Darrell Embrey
Suzanne and Christine,
The Embrey family sends deepest condolences for your loss. We will remember John's smile and laughter. He always had time to stop and chat, and he was always so upbeat. He loved his family very much and was so proud of you all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find peace and comfort during this difficult time. Love, Janet and Darrell
September 20, 2017
Kay & Dick Pace
We will miss John, Fellow WL graduate and friend.
September 20, 2017
Sam and Jackie Bowlin
John was a dear friend for over 45 years. We were reminded of the happy times at the cabin, at the golf tournaments and the many trips we took together. He had a unique sense of humor and a great love for life. We will miss him.
September 20, 2017
Tom and Eve Gee
Tom and I send our heartfelt condolences. He was a lovely, warm, funny man and will be sorely missed. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
September 19, 2017
Jay Stoutenburgh
Johnny was a friendly, outgoing optimist and busy guy in high school; we shared an English class at WL senior year, 1957. Condolences, prayers, peace to his family.
September 19, 2017
Debbie Weidman
Dear Suzanne - John and I send our love and prayers to you and the entire family. We remember the many times we talked and laughed with John. He will always be in our hearts.
September 19, 2017
Amy Bowlin
Dear Mrs. Courtright, Carolyn and Chrissy,
My love and prayers are sent your way, this is a great loss, of a great man. He will be missed, but his legacy lives on through each of you!!
Grace & Peace
Amy
September 19, 2017
Alana Pitcher
Dear Suzanne, Chrissy and Carolyn,
Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
With fond memories,
Alana & Jim
September 19, 2017
I never met this wonderful man, but I do know his daughter, Christine. She spoke lovingly of her family and of her father. May peace come to this family.
September 19, 2017
Lynn Rensel
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
September 18, 2017
Harry Rensel
I will always miss you brother John!!
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