John Harold Thiell

John Harold Thiell of Maitland, Florida passed away on Monday, June 22, 2026, surrounded by those he loved. He lived a life filled with love for his family, a song in his heart, and a sense of service to others.

John was born on September 23, 1934, in New York, New York. He grew up in the Kingsbridge area of the Bronx. As a choir boy, his tenor voice was in demand throughout the Episcopal Churches of the broader New York City area. John graduated at the age of 17 from Dewitt Clinton High School. That tenor voice made him a bit of a target among his peers but his skills on the handball court, long distance running, fixing cars, as well as his handsome smile soon overcame any social pressures. John joined the Army Reserve immediately after high school and served for 8 years.

Throughout his career, John worked as an engine room mechanic in hotels in New York and Philadelphia, and later as a building superintendent and facilities manager in New Jersey. He took great pride in his ability to diagnose and repair nearly any machine—often by sound alone—and was happiest when hard at work, hands covered in grease.

John met the love of his life, Edith, in the Mediator Church when he mistook her for an old girlfriend. Their love was solidified at weekly Youth Group meetings. John and Edith were married for 68 years – a marriage of devotion, support, and love.

He was a man of many talents, with interests ranging from musical theatre and choir to auto mechanics, sewing, metalworking, woodworking, and, most recently, jewelry making. He took great pleasure in helping neighbors and friends, always ready to lend a hand with any project or problem. In retirement, he surprised everyone with how fully he embraced this new chapter, relocating from the Northeast to Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina. There, he continued to apply his skills—learning to play golf and even crafting his own clubs. Rounds of golf with his buddies became a highlight, especially when they ended with a win over his son, Rich.

John was the son of John Chambers Thiell and Lillian Meyers Thiell. He was preceded in death by his two sisters and brothers-in-law, Nonie and Hopp Pierpoint and Jane and Oakie O’Connor.

He is survived by his loving wife, Edith; his son, Richard (Cherie); and his daughter, Jacqueline (Brian). He was a proud grandfather—affectionately known as “Bub”—to Benjamin and John, and to Jillian (Matt), Kelsey, and Stephen. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews—some by blood and many by choice—and, of course, his cherished four-legged companions.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life at the Baldwin Fairchild Funeral Home at 90 Weathersfield Avenue on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 11:30 am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his honor to the American Diabetes Association or the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando.