John Howard Glidewell, Jr.

Mr. John “Howard” Glidewell, Jr., age 76, of Villa Rica, Georgia, went home to be with his Lord, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday, October 30, 2026. He was born on September 15, 1950, in Richmond, Virginia, to the late John Howard Glidewell, Sr., and Hazel Emma Suggs Glidewell.

Howard married the love of his life, Sherrie Garner, on December 29, 1987. The two met on a blind date, and for Howard, it was love at first sight. From that day forward they were inseparable. He lovingly embraced the role of Dad to Sherrie's two daughters, Gina and Amanda, whom he adored wholeheartedly and loved and cared for as his own. Family was at the center of Howard's life, whether running weekend errands, staying involved in church and school activities, or big family gatherings.

Affectionately known as “Grandpa” to his five grandchildren, Howard found tremendous joy in being a grandparent. He especially enjoyed attending their school activities and sporting events, cheering them on and always being there to support them. He took great pride in participating in his granddaughter's Veterans Day school programs and loved it when they requested his famous eggs for breakfast. He treasured the everyday moments he had with them and was so proud of each of them.

Howard loved reading, finding great comfort in studying Scripture and reading the Bible. His faith was an important part of who he was, and he carried it with him in his daily life. He also enjoyed watching and cheering for the Atlanta Braves, Falcons and the Georgia Bulldogs.

He was a faithful and dedicated member of New Georgia Baptist Church, where he served as a Sunday School teacher, sang in the choir, and volunteered in numerous church activities. He had a deep and abiding love for his church family and the people in the surrounding community. He found great fulfillment serving others and sharing the gospel wherever he was.

Howard was a veteran of the United States Army, having served during the Vietnam War. He entered active service at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, in June 1970 and served for three years and seven days. During his military service, he was awarded two Purple Hearts in recognition of his sacrifices. Following his military service, Howard worked as a warehouse manager until his retirement.

Howard leaves behind a devoted family who will cherish his memory. His beloved wife of 38 years, Sherrie Garner Glidewell; his two daughters and sons-in-law, Gina and Nathan Smith and Amanda and David Marsden; his five grandchildren, Noelle Smith, Andrew Marsden, Molly Marsden, Ryan Marsden, and Maisy Marsden; his sisters, Patricia Young (Rodney) and Kay Beard; his brother, Paul Glidewell (Jo); his sisters-in-law, Sue Coleman and Treva Garner; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Howard was preceded in death by his mother and father-in-law, Jerrill and Mary Jo Garner; his sister, Nancy Henson; and his brothers-in-law, Randy Garner, Don Coleman, and William “Bill” Beard.

The family will receive friends on Monday, November 2, 2026 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Jones-Wynn Funeral Home Villa Rica Chapel. Funeral services will be conducted on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 at 2:00 PM at New Georgia Baptist Church with Dr. Jim Burdette and Dr. Keith Stell officiating. Interment will follow at Meadowbrook Memory Gardens.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.jones-wynn.com Jones-Wynn Funeral Home Inc. and Cremation Services of Villa Rica is in charge of the arrangements. 770-459-3694