John William Littrell

John William Littrell of Candler, North Carolina, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 31, 2026 at 70 years old.

John was a loving son to the late Eula Mae and John Howard Littrell.

He is survived by his wife, Susan; sons, John (Heather) and Chris (Karla) Littrell. John was a doting grandfather to his five grandchildren, Ev, Damian, Harrison, Ellie, Iain and Kanna. John is also survived by his loving sister, Karen (Mike) and niece, Tashina.

A graduate from UNC, and proud Tar Heel, John enlisted in the Navy after graduating in 1978. Fiercely proud of his country, John dedicated a significant chapter of his life to serving it, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy before being medically separated in 1991.

John had a deep appreciation for history, particularly the history found in the firearms he collected. As a relic gun collector, he found purpose in preserving their stories.

Above all, John leaves behind a family who knew him in ways no one else could; who will carry with them the memories, lessons, and stories that made John who he was. His life, and the relationships he shared with those closest to him, were layered and complex. Despite these complexities, his family remained beside him, offering their selflessness, care, and support through life’s many seasons, all the way until the end. His life touched each of them differently, and his absence will be felt in ways that cannot be easily put into words.

May he rest peacefully, his duty now complete.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 19 at 11:00 a.m. in the Patton Avenue chapel of Groce Funeral Home. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Pisgah View Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 a.m.