John F. Llewellyn

John Llewellyn November 16, 1947 - April 6, 2022

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved John Llewellyn. John died in Huntington Hospital on April 6th with his wife Carol by his side. John was a man of great integrity and this informed his conduct in all areas of his life. His gentlemanly nature was matched by his rigorous intellect. His penchant for knowledge led him to pursue many passions: technology, photography, investments, writing, and extensive travel. He was kind, competent, had a dry sense of humor, and was known for his wit. With an incredible strength of character (he was an Eagle Scout), John had a purposefulness and a desire for human kindness. John loved his family time, cherished his quiet time, and playing chess with his grandson Oliver. He enjoyed single malt scotch, gin martinis, red wine, time with close friends, and being in his happy place on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Born in Los Angeles, John was a third generation Californian. After attending college and obtaining his MBA, John joined Forest Lawn Memorial-Parks and Mortuaries. Serving almost 50 years, John rose to become President and CEO in 1988. He stepped down as President and CEO in 2011, but remained on Forest Lawn's Board of Directors as Board Chair. John passionately believed in and instilled a culture of caring throughout the organization. A leader in the industry, he is a past President of the International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Home Association and the Cemetery & Mortuary Association of California. He is also an author of three books related to the industry: A Cemetery Should Be Forever (1999), Saying Good-bye Your Way (2004), and Birth Of A Cemetery (2018).

John believed in giving back to the community, and he did. Until his death, John was a Director of the California Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles, and the Braille Institute of America. He served as trustee and CEO of the AS&F Foundation for many years until its liquidation in 2018.

His most recent journey was down a very difficult road, having being diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumor in January 2022. He navigated this diagnosis with his wife Carol by his side and his daughter Sharon, both of whom supported him with unconditional love and strength. He is survived by the love of his life Carol, devoted daughter Sharon (Dan), grandson Oliver, sister-in-law Julia and sister Ann (Andy). He will be in-credibly missed by his mother-in-law Shirley, Carol's brothers Mike and Jim, and his dear friends Ken and Gary. He is predeceased by his brother Rick.

He received comfort in the last week of his life due to the amazing neurology and palliative staff at Huntington Hospital, all of whom went out of their way to keep John in a protective bubble, providing complex care while exhibiting incredible compassion. The family would especially like to thank Dr. Enriques, Dr. Fineman, Dr. Tribe, Dr. Olivas, Dr. Linane, and Dr. Olah together with RNs Ashley, Nicole, Ashley, Fredia, Adrineh and Glynis, and PSAs Emily, Aleena, Larry, Iescha, DJ, and Jorge.

John was a rare and special man who will be missed by all those who came in contact with him.

If desired, a donation to Huntington Hospital's Neurology Department or Palliative Care Department would be appreciated by the family. Office of Philanthropy - Huntington Hospital, P.O Box 841576, Los Angeles, CA 90084-1576 Attention: Jane Haderlein


Visitation: Tuesday, April 12, 2022 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Church of the Recessional, Forest Lawn Glendale
1712 S. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, California 91205


Celebration of Life: Thursday, April 14, 2022 - 10:00 AM
Church of the Recessional, Forest Lawn Glendale
1712 S. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, California 91205


Reception to follow: Thursday, April 14, 2022 11:30 AM - 1:00PM
Museum Plaza
1712 S. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, California