John Harvey Metcalf

Born December 23, 1949, at Jefferson Hospital in Roanoke, Virginia, John grew up in Vinton, Virginia, where he attended Mount Pleasant Elementary School, East Vinton (now known as Herman L. Horn), William Byrd Junior High School, and William Byrd High School. He lived a life defined by integrity, loyalty, a little bit of stubbornness, a deep love for family, and a lot of drag racing. He often joked that he liked to get out on the edge of a branch and jump up and down until it cracked—a saying that perfectly captured his willingness to take risks and live life on his own terms.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Ralph Metcalf, Mary Ann O’Quinn Bandy Metcalf, and Clementine and Clarence Simmon; his brother, Billy Wayne Metcalf; and his grandparents, John Nathaniel Metcalf, Alma Lee Love Metcalf, Marion O’Quinn, Priscilla Johnson, Harve Bandy, and Dove Bandy (“Gran”).

John is survived by his devoted wife, Marlene Metcalf; his daughter, Rebecca Waterfield (Lewis); his stepdaughters, Sarah Sieck (Glenn) and Carla Markham (Lawson); and his siblings, Gary Lee Metcalf (Christine), Clarence David Simmon, Sheri Hughes, and Audrey Fairclothe.

He also leaves behind a large and loving family of grandchildren: Guermond Desir (Julianne), Isaac Williamson (Sisi), Paris Williamson (Josiah), Gabriel Waterfield, Michael Waterfield, Ella Markham, Ginny Markham, and Asher Markham, along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews, and so many friends (including many motorheads) who loved him dearly. He could never go anywhere without seeing someone he knew.

John worked many places along his journey, including Pikes, Shepards, and Automotive Fasteners. He also spent time living in Greensboro, NC, where he worked for a sign company and owned his own business. He was a dedicated entrepreneur, co-owning J and G Automotive with his brother Gary, as well as owning and operating Johnny’s Auto Electric, Vinton Alternator and Starter, and Johnny’s Trading Post. He had a lifelong work ethic and drive, and people knew they could depend on him. If he said he would do it, it would get done.

Known to many as “Jericho Johnny,” John had a lifelong passion for drag racing. His love for speed began with his first car, a 1963 Ford Falcon 2-door business coupe, which he quickly modified and made his own. He raced a lot of cars but over the years, he became known for his bright yellow ’63 Ford Falcon and his beautiful teal Ford Maverick—cars that reflected both his skill and his personality. He spent countless hours at racetracks, including Elk Creek Dragway, Natural Bridge, Motor Mile, and many more, doing what he loved most. He was a proud member of the Classic Gear Jammers and Elk Creek Gear Jammers.

Outside of racing, John enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, spending time at the rifle range, and was a member of numerous hunting clubs. He also loved classic Westerns and stories of the Old West and the South, especially Have Gun – Will Travel, Gunsmoke, Wanted: Dead or Alive, Bonanza, and shows about Cajun Country. He enjoyed funny shows and movies like The Great Outdoors and also enjoyed watching Grease and Eddie and the Cruisers, along with Tracker and The Curse of Oak Island.

John was always tinkering with something and had an entrepreneurial spirit. From using the Cricut and designing signs and T-shirts, to airbrushing, wood burning, and working on many hands-on projects, he stayed busy and creative. A good day was any day he checked at least one thing off his to-do list… he always had a list of projects to get done. Right up until he became ill, he was even teaching himself to play the guitar. He loved oldies music—especially “House of the Rising Sun”—and early rock ’n’ roll, and although he would not call himself a dancer, he would not hesitate to move to music he loved.

Those who knew him best can picture him now—finally at peace, probably doing a burnout on the streets of gold. Above all, John will be remembered for his strong presence, his passion for life, and the love he gave to those around him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A private family graveside service will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Details for his celebration of life will be shared at a later time.

Love you, most.