John L. Sehon VI

John Leicester Sehon VI passed away on April 18, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, creativity, and connection to those he loved. Born in Charleston, WV, on February 19, 1939, John’s life was defined by his curiosity, caring deeply for those he loved, and finding joy in the world around him.

A veteran of the U.S. Army, John served his country from 1958 to 1961. Following his service, he embarked on a distinguished career with Xerox, where he was highly regarded as an innovative and dedicated professional.

Upon retiring to Chapel Hill, NC, John fully immersed himself in the community. He was a devoted member of the University Presbyterian Church, where he found great joy singing in the choir. His commitment to service was most evident through his 20-year involvement with Habitat for Humanity of Orange County. During his tenure, which included serving as President of the Board, John played a pivotal role in acquiring property to provide homes for those in need. As a lifelong lover of photography he viewed the world through a lens of curiosity, a perspective he championed both in his own work and as a passionate instructor at Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Duke.

John truly embraced everything life had to offer. Whether he was studying history, experimenting in the kitchen, capturing the world through his camera lens, or cheering on the Tar Heels, he did so with enthusiasm. He traveled widely, but he held his simplest moments closest to his heart—especially the years spent camping with his children, which he recalled as some of his fondest memories. Above all, John was a hopeless romantic when it came to his wife of 42 years, Lucia; his devotion to her was a cornerstone of his life.

He will be remembered by his many friends as a brilliant conversationalist who could make anyone feel heard. His innovative spirit and warm heart will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

John is survived by his loving wife, Lucia Sehon; his children, John Leicester Sehon VII, Lee Sehon, Elizabeth Olson (Brian), and Andis Strauja (Lindsey); and his brothers, Edward Sehon (Margaret) and Reed Sehon. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren: Brittany Barclay (Craig), Katharine Fadero (Nicholas), Nicholas Sehon, Tyler Sehon, Izabella Sehon, Ella Strauja, Kaiden Strauja, and Zoe Strauja, as well as seven great-grandchildren.

John was preceded in death by his mother Katharine Hitchman Ritchey and father John Leicester Sehon V.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Habitat for Humanity of Orange County, NC.