John Lawerance Nettuno

John Lawerance Nettuno, age 76, passed away on May 4, 2026. Born July 16, 1949, John was a longtime resident of the Houston, Texas area, and will be remembered with deep respect and enduring love by all who knew him.

John graduated from Sam Houston High School in 1967 and later earned his degree from the University of Houston in 1979, milestones that reflected his determination and hard-working spirit. He served his country with honor in the United States Army from 1969 to 1971, stationed in Germany, carrying forward a faithful sense of duty and loyalty that remained evident throughout his life.

On July 1, 1972, John married Theresa (Shields) Nettuno at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. Together they built a devoted life in the Houston area, raising three sons and creating a home shaped by patience, kindness, and steadfast commitment. John’s profound love for family was evident in everything he did.

He was a true cornerstone in his neighborhood community, cherished by neighbors who quickly became lifelong friends. In his spare time, he volunteered as a Cubmaster and led scouting events, from camping trips to pinewood derbies and the various lessons in between. He was also an active participant in the Neighborhood Watch program in Imperial Valley. In those days, the watch involved late-night drives through the streets with CB radios in at least 2 cars and 1 base. CB radio conversations crackling in the car, neighbors keeping watch together for anything suspicious, mixed with friendly stops for fresh coffee and donuts, turning duty into a shared experience that strengthened bonds with residents and family.

For his sons, these scouting events and night watches became regular lessons in the importance of community, responsibility, and looking out for and supporting others. What could have been just “watching the neighborhood” or completing scouting assignments turned into meaningful father-son time with lasting memories of service and camaraderie.

His love for the holidays was truly infectious and ultimately shared with his grandkids. He delighted in spreading that joy to others, volunteering to drive Santa Claus around in a convertible to brighten the season for everyone. He regularly spent weeks preparing new Christmas displays with his kids, using it as an excuse to spend time with them and teach them woodworking and handyman skills, while also enjoying the displays and the shared beauty of the season with his neighbors.

John spent his working years as a Controller in several Houston car dealerships, known for his honesty, reliability, and the quiet wisdom that comes from doing things the right way. He helped develop several dealerships into the larger organizations they are today and supported others during and after various ownership changes.

He treasured time spent traveling with Theresa and especially enjoyed their scenic trips to Alaska. John truly appreciated the beauty of experience, whether he was enjoying the storytelling of a musical, taking a plane tour to land on a glacier, stepping out to walk across the ice, or experiencing Disney World with his family.

As his sons became fathers, he was ecstatic to become the Western and Christmas loving, sweet and supportive grandfather/Mampy/Pop they all know him as today. He was a devoted grandfather who cherished every moment with his grandkids, even telling his final hospital nurses about them as his passion. Whether he was cheering them on at dance recitals and sporting events, celebrating them at awards ceremonies and school programs, or sharing his love of Disney World and all the experiences he shared with them, he was always present and completely supportive of his grandkids.

Those who knew John often spoke of his gentle nature and kind-hearted presence. He never met a stranger, and his compassion was not merely spoken—it was lived, through selfless help offered freely and a sincere belief in the value of every person. In this way, John was beloved not only within his family but also among friends and all who had the privilege of crossing his path.

John fought a long, hard battle with cancer. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the medical team who helped in his fight and are thankful for the extensions John and they benefited from over several years.

John is survived by his wife, Theresa Nettuno; his sons, Jay Nettuno (Tracee Nettuno), Anthony Nettuno (Brooke Nettuno), Matthew Nettuno (Crystal Nettuno); and his grandchildren, Emilee Hebb (Sage Hebb), Ashlee Nettuno, Natalee Nettuno, Caden Nettuno, Zoe Nettuno, Matthew Nettuno Jr., and Ezekiel Nettuno.

Visitation will be held at Earthman Resthaven, 13102 North Fwy, Houston, TX 77060, on June 2, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am. A Celebration of Life will follow at Earthman Resthaven on June 2, 2026, from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. A Committal Service will take place at Earthman Resthaven Funeral Home & Cemetery, 13102 North Fwy, Houston, TX 77060, on June 2, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm.