John August Werner Jr.

John August Werner, Jr., age 86, went to eternal rest on July 16, 2025, at Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina. He was born on June 29, 1939 in Birmingham, Alabama to the late John August Werner, Sr. and Hilda Clair Schoel Werner.

John was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He grew up in Birmingham and graduated from Woodlawn High School. He proudly served in the United States Navy for three years as an Air Control Technician aboard the USS Intrepid, receiving an honorable discharge in 1960.

Upon returning home, John met and married the love of his life, Martha Sue Montgomery Werner, with whom he shared 63 wonderful years.

John began his professional career as a Design Engineer for Saint Joe Paper Company before relocating to Tuscaloosa, Alabama to attend the University of Alabama - remaining a devoted and lifelong Alabama football fan. In 1965, he and his family moved to Memphis, Tennessee where he enjoyed a successful career as a salesman and sales manager with ITT American Electric, earning numerous sales awards and accolades. In 1983, the family relocated to Raleigh, North Carolina where John continued to build his professional career.

A lifelong member of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, John was deeply committed to his faith. From attending Walther League Conventions in his youth to later serving in leadership roles President, Vice President, Elder, and Council Member-John gave generously of his time and talents. He especially loved teaching youth Sunday School and Confirmation classes and took great joy in welcoming newcomers. His volunteer work with Meals on Wheels reflected his kind spirit and his desire to serve others.

John was also a gifted woodworker, crafting beautiful wooden gifts for friends and family. He enjoyed playing bridge, working crossword puzzles, visits to North Carolina beaches, and traveling with Martha to destinations across the U.S. and around the world.

John is survived by his loving wife, Martha, son John August Werner III, daughter Susan Werner Hayes (Billy), four granddaughters, and two great-granddaughters.

A Memorial Service celebrating the life and resurrection of John August Werner, Jr. will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1500 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27608. The family will receive friends following the service at a reception in the Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Saviour Lutheran Church, by using the link below, under 'Donations'.

If you would like to leave a favorite memory / story of John, or a message of condolence for his family, you may do so below, within 'Add a Memory'.