John A. Medley Jr.

John Abell “Johnny” Medley Jr., a beloved figure in the Owensboro community, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2025, at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital. Born on September 8, 1938, in Owensboro, to the late John A. Medley Sr. and Mary Cecilia O’Bryan Medley, John lived a life characterized by generosity, artistic expression, and unwavering commitment to his community.

An accomplished professional, John served as part owner and eventually president of Quality Beers Distributing Company. His leadership and dedication also extended to public service, where he proudly held the role of City Commissioner for numerous years, contributing to the welfare and betterment of his hometown. John attended Owensboro Catholic High School and continued his education with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Dayton, Ohio. He was a member of Blessed Mother Catholic Church and a U.S. Army veteran. Beyond his career and civic engagement, John was a passionate artist and painter. He was a lover of art and bluegrass music, interests that often intertwined and influenced his creative endeavors. Alongside his wife, he traveled extensively across the country and around the world, enriching their lives with experiences and cultural encounters. John was known for his philanthropic nature, generously sharing his time and resources for the betterment of others. He was an Eagle Scout and had lifelong involvement with the Boy Scout Council as well as involvement with several other organizations including Wendell Foster, Jaycees, Rotary Club, The Bluegrass Museum, and the Owensboro Art Guild. His contributions to these groups were a testament to his belief in giving back to the community that shaped him.

In addition to his parents, John is preceded in death by his sisters, Sarah Jane Medley Kuntz and Frances E. Medley McNulty; brothers, Thomas A. Medley and Benedict F. Medley; sister-in-law, Carol Medley; and brothers-in-law, Bill Foor and Jerry Kuntz. 

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of almost 64 years, Mary Kiley Medley; son, John A. Medley III (Lynn Jurss); daughters, Lisa Medley Welch (Alan) and Angela Medley Stanton (Doug); sisters, Mary Wathen Medley Foor and Ellen Medley Accurso; brothers, William M. Medley and Daniel S. Medley (Kathy); brother-in-law, John McNulty; sisters-in-law, Susan Medley and Denise Medley; grandchildren, Graham Welch (Becky Zaunbrecher), Abigail Leonard (Paul), Erin Stanton, Allison Medley, and John “Jack” Medley IV; as well as a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. 

The funeral service for John will be 4 PM Monday, January 27, at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory. Visitation will be from 1 PM until time of service at the funeral home. 

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to The Bluegrass Museum 117 Daviess Street, Owensboro KY 42301, Boys and Girls Club, 3415 Buckland Square, Owensboro, KY 42301, Brescia University, 717 Frederica St, Owensboro, KY 42301, or a charity close to your heart. 

Memories and condolences may be offered online at www.glenncares.com