John Warren

1936 - 2025

"The strength of those who wait with hope in the Lord will be renewed. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and won't become weary. They will walk and won't grow tired." ISAIAH 40:31.

On August 10, 2025, surrounded by the love of his wife and children, John Alexander Warren, 88, of Charlottesville, Virginia, died peacefully at the University of Virginia Medical Center. John was the dedicated son of the late Reverend Oliver J. and Elizabeth N. Warren, the faithful and loving husband of 64 years to Katherine McGlothlin Warren, devoted father to Karen, Greg (Maggie), and Drew; and steadfast brother to Betty, Ann Warren Hollar, Daniel, Patricia Warren Davies, and Pamela Warren Cicchinelli. Arguably, John's most treasured title was "Grandaddy" to Alex (Katherine), Olivia, John Thomas "JT" (Sydney), Graham, Libbie, Luke, Kate, Davis, and Julia. He will be missed dearly by countless relatives, friends, and associates he considered family.

The son of a Presbyterian minister, John was born and raised in upstate New York. He was a proud graduate of Lansingburgh High School where his remarkable basketball journey began shaping him as a leader, teammate, and competitor - not only on the court but in life. John received a scholarship to play at the University of Connecticut, then Davis and Elkins College, where he graduated with a business degree in 1960. It was at Davis and Elkins that he met a Southern belle from Southwestern Virginia, and that relationship with his wife, Katherine, led to the creation of a beautiful family that he cherished and regarded as his highest accomplishment.

Ensign Warren commissioned in the United States Navy in November 1960 and retired as Captain Warren from the Naval Air Reserve in December 1990 after 30 years of service to his country. In addition to his proud military career, John held many civilian roles in management, personnel administration, sales, and commercial real estate. An entrepreneurial spirit in business helped him to excel, but it was his love for the human spirit that set him apart. John cared sincerely for people, showing respect and upholding the dignity of others wherever he went.

His belief in service beyond self and helping his community was exemplified through his participation with the United Way, Navy League, and the Charlottesville Chamber of Commerce. Most notably, he served as President of both the Kiwanis Club and Civitan International.

John's deep faith in God was an essential part of his life. A member of the First Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville for over 50 years, he held several positions within the church, loved the congregation, God's word, and singing traditional hymns. John served others and the Lord; he was a blessing to many.

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and son - John was a grace-filled child of God, a patriotic American veteran, a compassionate and fun-loving member of the Charlottesville community, and a sweet and caring family man. Though born in New York, he embodied all the traits of a "Southern Gentleman," and shared the gifts with which God so richly blessed him: patience, kindness, a great sense of humor, compassion for his fellow man, and a signature hook-shot from the top of the key.

A service to celebrate John's life and legacy will be held Saturday, September 6th, 2025, at 2 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 500 Park Street, Charlottesville, VA. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall, where the family will receive friends.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the outstanding medical providers at Sentara and the University of Virginia who cared for John as his health declined. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org) or America's Fund (www.thefund.org).