John F. Furlong

John F. Furlong, an influential landscape architect, teacher, mentor and deeply loving father and grandfather passed away on August 8, 2025, at the age of 85. Born in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, on September 8, 1939, he was the beloved son of Madeline Olive Furlong and John Frederick Furlong, Sr.

A graduate of Penn State University with a degree in landscape architecture and of the Harvard Graduate School of Design, John's career blended artistry, ecological sensitivity, and deep respect for the places people call home. His professional journey took him from designing landscapes for the Town of Brookline, Massachusetts, to projects of international scope. He served as director of the Landscape Institute at Radcliffe Seminars and later at Harvard's Arnold Arboretum, where his leadership inspired generations of students to see the landscape not just as scenery, but as a living, evolving work of art.

John's influence in the field was recognized when the Harvard Graduate School of Design honored him as one of the 100 most influential graduates of the past century-a fitting tribute to his creativity, vision, and enduring contributions.

Beyond his professional achievements, John was known for his humor, his boundless curiosity about the world, and his ability to make everyone feel seen and valued. He found joy in conversation, in gardens both wild and cultivated, and in sharing the beauty he saw everywhere.

John was a devoted husband to Karen Madsen, who died in 2021. John's death was also proceeded by a loving loyal brother, Gary. He is survived by his daughters Signe (George) Kurian, Molly Brewster, and Leah (Michael) DiRamio; and grandchildren Nia Brewster, Jordan Brewster, Elijah Kurian, Hazel Kurian, Nova DiRamio, Georgia DiRamio; and his sister, Nancy Dyson. He is also survived by his dear friend and sister-in-law, Mary Jane Kaplan.

John's life leaves an enduring mark on landscapes, communities, and hearts around the world. A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Arnold Arboretum, online at: https://arboretum.harvard.edu/ or to a landscape preservation charity of your choice.