John Ray Highland

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Ray Highland, age 59, on July 31, 2025, in Mississippi.

John was born in Grants Pass, Oregon, and grew up in Gresham. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy as an Operations Specialist for 20 years, receiving several awards and citations, including the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. During this time, he was stationed in multiple locations and primarily served as a Tactical Air Controller and Navy Recruiter.

After retiring from the military, John made his home with Cindy in Northern Virginia for 20 years. There he worked in the IT/infrastructure development fields before joining Amazon Web Services (AWS). When he transferred with AWS to Mississippi, he quickly fell in love with the area - the water, the people, and the Gulf Coast - and recently purchased the home where he planned to retire.



John's greatest joys in life were his beautiful daughters and grandchildren. A true outdoorsman, John loved fishing, hunting, kayaking, riding motorcycles, and skiing. He was also deeply committed to veteran causes and community service, volunteering his time to support others.

John is survived by his mother and stepfather Lori and Ed Rich of Oregon, his sister Julie Woodall (Woody) of Massachusetts, his wife Cindy Highland of Virginia, his former wife Janet Sandway (Greg) mother of two daughters Hallie Rathod (Jai) and Macy Highland both of Virginia, daughter McKenzie Highland of Iowa, and four grandchildren Gabriel, Shepherd, Aspen, and Paxtyn.

John was loved by many and will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

A Celebration of Life to honor John will be held in Northern Virginia on Saturday, October 11.

In remembrance of John's life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to the Mental Health Online Resource and Listening Center or your favorite charity in his name.