Granger Macfarlane II

1929 - 2025

John Granger Macfarlane II

July 30, 1929 - June 23, 2025

John Granger Macfarlane II, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, businessman, and statesman, passed away peacefully in Roanoke, Virginia, on Monday, June 23, 2025, at the age of 95. His extended family takes comfort knowing he left this world to be with his loving wife and lifelong companion of 73 years, Anne Ernestine Beck Macfarlane who passed away seven weeks prior.

Granger was born on July 30, 1929, in Washington, D.C. to Ruby Catherine Sanford and John Granger Macfarlane. A proud graduate of Duke University and a United States Marine Corps veteran who bravely served his country in the Korean War, Granger lived a wonderful, long life dedicated to serving family, church, community, and State.

His life-long focus on helping others and wanting to make a difference in the world and in the lives of all whom he touched was his guiding light which shown bright. Granger will be remembered for his integrity, humility, kindness, and ever-present wit. His personality was infectious, and everyone he met was his best friend. He loved being with family and community and he was unabashed about offering his insight and wisdom to wonderful effect. His presence uplifted the lives of those around him-whether through public service, quiet acts of generosity, or the simple joy of a good story well told. He understood the impact of the institutions which guided him and others toward a righteous society and he devoted much of his time and resources to supporting them. He strongly believed and was inspired by verse 12:48 of the Gospel of Luke: "To whom much is given, much will be required".

Professionally, Granger was a pioneering figure in Southwest Virginia's hospitality industry. As founder of Blue Ridge Hospitality Group and its predecessor, Eastern Motor Inns, Inc., he oversaw the development and operation of many hotels and motor inns.

He was known not only for running a successful business, but for his willingness to quietly help and house those in crisis-particularly families displaced by fire-reflecting his deep commitment to the community he loved.

In 1983, Granger was elected to the Virginia State Senate, where he represented the 21st District from 1984 to 1992. A principled Democrat, he championed education, small business, and infrastructure investment throughout Southwest Virginia. His political service was rooted in common-sense leadership, bipartisanship, and an unwavering focus on helping his constituents. He steered clear of money-influenced politics and focused on best representing those who elected him to public office.

Civic engagement remained a lifelong passion. He served on numerous boards and commissions, including the Virginia Port Authority, the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission, the Virginia Western Community College Foundation, and the Roanoke Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross. Alongside Anne, he was twice honored with the Chancellor's Award for Leadership in Philanthropy by the Virginia Community College System for their contributions to higher education.

On August 30, 1952, Granger married Anne Ernestine Beck in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Over the next 73 years, they built a remarkable life together-raising four children, doting on grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and creating a home defined by warmth, generosity, laughter, and grace. Their marriage was a true partnership, marked by shared values, mutual admiration, and enduring love.

He was predeceased by Anne on April 30, 2025. He is survived by their four children, John G. Macfarlane III and his wife, Dudley, of Crozet, VA; Charles S. Macfarlane and his wife, Sheila, of Richmond, VA; Anne "Sandy" Macfarlane and her husband, Salim, of Oregon House, CA; and Mary Banks Barnhill and her husband, Ken, of Albany, GA; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many dear friends and extended family members.

A memorial service will be held at Second Presbyterian Church in Roanoke at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 30, 2025, with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Second Presbyterian Church's Mountain Avenue Fund, continuing Granger's lifelong legacy of quiet generosity and community stewardship. Condolences may be shared with his family at www.Oakeys.com.

"His life was a testament to humility, purpose, and love-rooted in service, guided by faith, and forever remembered by those who knew him."

Oakey's Funeral Service - Roanoke Chapel

Downtown Roanoke, VA (540) 982-2100