John Alfred Horwood

It is with great sadness that the family of John Alfred Horwood announces his passing at the age 83 on December 28, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. John was born in Ohio, but resided a majority of his life in Tampa.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mildred L. Horwood, his son, Gary W. Horwood, and his parents John and May Horwood. He is survived by his children: Donna Horwood, Susie (Ray) Soza, Glenda (Andrew) Mendello, and David Horwood; daughter-in-law LeeAnn Horwood; his grandchildren: Kara Horwood, Katie (Michael) Alexander, Thomas Henegar, and Makai Mendello; his sisters: Anna Sylvia Hughes and Barbara Jean Horwood; many nieces and nephews; and his companion Mary Thompson.

A proud member of United Association Local 624 Pipefitter and Plumber, he retired from Hillsborough County Wastewater in 2005. John was known for his dedication to his craft and his commitment to those he worked alongside. His skill and expertise were evident in many projects across the region, but perhaps most notably, in his contribution to the creation of the early penguin exhibit at SeaWorld Orlando, a project that became a beloved part of the park’s history.

John found solace and satisfaction in woodworking, a passion he nurtured long before his working years and continued to embrace well into his later life. His family home became a testament to his skill and creativity, with countless wooden pieces crafted by his hand adorning every room.

John was a man of the outdoors, preferring sunrises to sunsets. His backyard, a meticulously tended oasis of gardens, became a peaceful retreat for both him and his family. He reveled in the quiet joy of cultivating plants, and his dry sense of humor was often as rich as the soil he worked with. He had a love for fishing that spanned many decades, often spending hours by the water, content in solitude or with a few close friends or family members.

While John’s life was one of modesty, it was also one rich with love, laughter, and purpose. He enjoyed traveling with his family, whether it was a weekend getaway or an adventure to new places, and never failed to make those around him smile with his subtle wit and dry humor. A particular favorite stop on the road was Goats on the Roof in Georgia.

A Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 11am at Blount & Curry Funeral Home at Garden of Memories, 4207 E Lake Ave, Tampa, Florida.