John Howard Finley, Jr.

John Howard Finley, Jr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on March 18, 2025, in Midland, Texas, at the age of 67. Born on October 9, 1957, in Fort Davis, Texas, John was a lifelong resident of west Texas and the Big Bend area, where he touched many lives with his warmth and kindness.

John graduated from Midland High School, where he laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to hard work and community engagement. He pursued a career as a surveyor, a role that highlighted his keen eye for detail and dedication. Additionally, John worked at AutoZone, where he became a familiar face and built lasting relationships with colleagues and customers alike.

In his personal life, John was known for his passion for fishing and hunting. These hobbies not only brought him joy but also provided cherished moments shared with family and friends in the great outdoors. His love for nature and adventure was a reflection of his character—one that appreciated life’s simple pleasures and the beauty of the world around him.

John is survived by his loving wife, Manuela Finley; his mother, Ethelene Finley; and his stepdaughters, Alejandra Bustillos and Naomi McElroy as well as his brother James Finley and his partner John Sternlicht, his brother Ronnie Finley and wife Colleen, and his sister Tammy Walker. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Nichole, Devin, Chase, and Sophia McElroy, who were the pride and joy of his life.

John was preceded in death by his father, John Howard Finley, Sr. His legacy of love, dedication, and cherished memories will forever remain in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

As we remember John, let us carry forward the values he instilled in us—compassion, hard work, and a deep appreciation for family and nature. He will be greatly missed, but his spirit will live on in the lives he touched.