Mr. John Daniel Courtney passed away on Monday January 25, 2021. He was born to Jason and Elizabeth Hulion Courtney on July 19, 1929 in the New Harmony Community on land that was homesteaded by his grandfather. He was always proud to be a member of one of the founding families of Walton County.

Mr. Courtney was preceded in death by one beloved son John Randal Courtney, his parents, one sister, Catherine Fulgham, and one brother Robert Courtney. He is survived by his wife of more than 70 years, Marie Pridgen Courtney, one sister Zeddie McIntosh, one sister-in-law Helga Courtney, and numerous nieces and nephews who loved him very much.

After their marriage in 1950, John and Marie moved to Washington D.C. where for several years they were both employed by the F.B.I. They then moved to Gainesville, Florida for John to attend the University of Florida. Following graduation, they relocated to Pensacola, Florida where he was employed by American Cyanamid as a Chemical Analyst for 25 years. After retirement he and Marie relocated to DeFuniak Springs, Florida to be near family.

Mr. Courtney was a devout Christian. He loved his church and he loved music. Over the years, he and Marie were involved in music ministries that included directing church music programs, playing instruments, and organizing and performing with several quartets.

He was also a talented woodworker. In retirement he utilized those skills by handcrafting 90 fiddles, 5 guitars, 14 mandolins and 2 dulcimers. He particularly loved Blue Grass music and took every opportunity to attend Blue Grass festivals. He was well known and respected in the Blue Grass community. Several performers currently play instruments he crafted. He occasionally wrote music and in 2005, one of his songs, "Walkin' John" was recorded on the instrumental CD "Timeless." His talents have been highlighted in numerous print articles and he was featured on "Places and Faces of the Panhandle" on Channel 7 WGHG Panama City, Florida.

Mr. Courtney's life truly epitomizes "A Life Well Lived." He was a faithful Christian, a devoted husband and father, and an asset to his community. He will be greatly missed by many.

A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 – 11:00 AM, Friday, January 29, 2021 at First Baptist Church DeFuniak Springs; 216 Live Oak Avenue East, DeFuniak Springs, Florida 32435.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, January 29, 2021 at the First Baptist Church of DeFuniak Springs with Reverend Jerry Chumley officiating.

Burial will follow in New Harmony Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Christian Academy at 216 Live Oak Avenue East, DeFuniak Springs, Florida 32435, or to your favorite charity.