John Edward Washburn, a resident of Greenville, TX, peacefully passed away on June 17, 2024, at the age of 77 at Texas Health Hospital in Rockwall, surrounded by his loving family. Born on June 5, 1947, in Sherman, Texas, he was the son of Thomas Preston Washburn and Nannie Jo (Robinson) Washburn.
John graduated from high school in Trenton, TX, in 1965 and pursued higher education at East Texas State University (now Texas A&M), earning both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. His career began as a Medical Technologist at the VA Hospital in Bonham before transitioning to the Hunt County Probation Department, where he retired as the Assistant Director.
Music was a lifelong passion for John, who started as a drummer in the rock band “The Trentones” during his late teens, later known as the “U.S. Malemen.” They performed widely across local venues and appeared on television at Panther Hall in Fort Worth. John’s love for music extended to the guitar, and he later taught himself to play the banjo. In his leisure time, he enjoyed jogging, going to the gym, meeting his grandsons for a workout, and capturing cherished family moments behind the camera.
John married Barbara (Ramsey) Washburn in October 1995 in Trenton, TX, and they shared 28 years of marriage. A devout member of the Church of Christ in Trenton, John was known for his unwavering faith and service to the Lord.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara Washburn of Greenville, TX; son, John Thomas Washburn and wife, Ashley, of Royse City, TX; step-son, Matthew Burch of Houston, TX; grandchildren, Preston and Peyton Washburn; sister, Lou Ann Taylor and husband, Morris, of Ector, TX; nephew, Jared Richardson; and brothers and sisters-in-law, Paul, Clay, Kay, Ronnie, and Jean. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Nannie Washburn, and brother, Rob Washburn.
The family will receive guests for a visitation on Thursday, June 20, 2024, from 6-8 PM at Turrentine Jackson Morrow, 701 North Cedar Street, Leonard, TX 75452. The funeral service, officiated by Bro. Robert Stephenson, will be held at 11 AM on Friday, June 21, 2024, at Turrentine Jackson Morrow, followed by burial at Burns Cemetery. Pallbearers include Jared Richardson, David Harmon, Chris Swiney, Mark Speyer, Saulo Marins, and Autur Marins.