Obituary: John D. Curry

John Downing Curry of Oxford, Ohio, passed away at his home on Jan. 16, 2026.

John was born Nov. 16, 1938, in Xenia, Ohio, to Joseph and Vada Downing Curry. 

He earned a bachelor’s degree from Wilmington College as a Kettering scholar and a Ph.D in inorganic chemistry from The Ohio State University on a Kettering fellowship. Following his studies, he received a NATO post-doctoral fellowship at Magdalen College of Oxford University in England, where he was named a William Ramsey Honorary Fellow.

Professionally, John worked at P&G for over 35 years, publishing numerous papers and holding approximately 18 patents. He was a 50-year member of the American Chemical Society and belonged to several honorary scientific organizations, including Chi Beta Phi, Phi Lambda Upsilon and Sigma Xi.

John was deeply committed to his community. A member of the Oxford Presbyterian Church for over 50 years, he served as a deacon, elder and trustee. His extensive volunteer work included the Oxford City Council, Oxford Museum Association and United Way. He was also active with the Oxford Community Arts Center, Kiwanis and the Des Fleurs Garden Club, and was recognized as the 2011 Citizen of the Years in Oxford.

John and his wife Marilyn settled in Oxford, Ohio and shared 60 wonderful years of marriage. 

He is survived by Marilyn; his daughter, Elaine (Greg) Hellwarth; his son, John Downing (Anne) Curry, Jr.; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. His family was his greatest pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent supporting his children and grandchildren at their many sporting events.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community he served so faithfully. A memorial service will be held Feb. 4, 2026 at 2 p.m. at the Oxford Presbyterian Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Oxford Presbyterian Church or the Oxford Museum Association.

This obituary was originally published by Paul R. Young Funeral Home and has been edited for length.