Life-long Cullman County resident, John J. Guthrie, Jr. died peacefully in his sleep at his residence on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. He was born on June 13, 1955 to the late John J. Guthrie and Mary Braswell Guthrie. He is survived by his wife, Donna Guthrie; children, Lindsay Guthrie Stidham (Graham), Cullman, Peyton Guthrie, Cullman and, John J. Guthrie, III (Lily), Fultondale, AL; grandchildren, Evelyn Gray Stidham and Sophie Banks Guthrie. He is also survived by his siblings, Marsha Guthrie Folsom (Jim) of Cullman and David Guthrie (Lori) of Spartanburg, S.C. Nieces and nephews are Meghan Folsom (Garrick Ambrose), Ghent, New York, James Folsom (Jamie), Nashville, TN, Ian Guthrie (Amanda), Duncan, S.C. and Noah Guthrie (Haley), Greer, S.C.
John was a graduate of Fairview High School and attended Jacksonville State University where he was a member of Delta Chi Fraternity.
His early days were spent in the Cullman County community of Walter where he was a farm boy, enjoying being at his father’s cotton gin and at his grandfather’s nearby farm. It was also where he learned the importance of friendship and working with people from all stations of life. As an adult, John was known for his quick wit, always ready with a laugh and a joke. His many friends enjoyed his company and good nature. His gentle smile and kindness was exhibited to one and all. John was quick to remind, “life isn’t all touchdowns and cheerleaders” but to live every moment to the fullest.
John worked as an associate at the Montgomery governmental affairs firm, Bloom Group and in that capacity represented various cities, including the City of Cullman, and other business interests who engaged him to lobby for their concerns at Alabama’s Statehouse. He was highly respected and regarded as a person of integrity and honesty in his work and made many friends during his time in Montgomery.
The family will welcome guests for visitation on Friday, January 9th from 6-8 p.m. at Hanceville Funeral Home, 100 Michelle St. NW, Hanceville, AL. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 10th at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 320 3rd Ave., SE, Cullman, AL, with the body lying in state from 1-2 p.m.
Rev. James Fields, St. James United Methodist Church, Irondale, AL and Rev. Josh Hickman of First United Methodist Church, Cullman will be officiating the services. Pallbearers are Mel Bailey, Ron Faust, John Floyd, David Lowery, Jeff Martin, Winfield Moon, Brandon Owens, and Tommy Waldrop. Honorary Pallbearers are Doyle Baker and Kelly Allen.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to First United Methodist Church, 320 3rd Ave., SE, Cullman, AL 35055.
