John W. Guthrie

John William “Bill” Guthrie passed away Tuesday evening February 8, 2011 at Canon Hospice in Metairie, LA. Bill was born January 9, 1933 in Chattanooga, TN and grew up on nearby Signal Mt., TN. He received a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree from Georgia Institute of Technology in June 1956. Bill was employed by Square D Company until he retired. He was preceded in death by his parents Gertrude Dorst Guthrie and John Thomson Guthrie. Bill leaves his wife of 53 years, Martha Sigler Guthrie; his three sons, twins Byron Thomson Guthrie and Robert William Guthrie and John Dorst Guthrie (wife Margaret C. Guthrie); a brother George Thomson Guthrie (wife Janelle Allen Guthrie); four grandchildren Patrick Guthrie, Benjamin Miles, Byron Guthrie and Sylvia Guthrie. He is also survived by nieces, a nephew and cousins.

Bill was a devoted volunteer at the information desk at Ochsner Hospital for 13 years. He was a good and kind man always willing to lend a helping hand. He also served on the Official Board at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, and assisted as an usher for many years. He and his family moved to Metairie in 1973.

He loved golf and fishing, and was an avid reader. His camp at Lakeshore, MS was his pride and joy. He will be missed by his many friends everywhere. Special thanks to the caregivers at ARCH House Elmwood Pkwy.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Memorial Service at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 5875 Canal Blvd, New Orleans on Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 1:00 pm. Visitation from 12:00 noon until time of service. A reception will be held in the Fellowship Hall of the church following the service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 2605 River Rd., New Orleans, LA 70121 or to a favorite charity. Condolences may be offered at www.leitzeaganfuneralhome.com.