John Killian, affectionately known as Johnny, passed away suddenly Sunday morning, November 17, 2024.

Johnny was born on November 11, 1993, in Baltimore, MD, the son of Howard Killian and Natalie Horton.  He was a graduate of Rising Sun High School, and attended West Virginia University, on track towards Journalism. It was there he truly realized his love for sports and followed WV teams avidly. He was kind, generous and wonderful but just ornery enough not to be a goody two-shoes.  He was named after his favorite person, his uncle, John Killian.  John was an enthusiastic business owner with a deep passion for music. At Granite Run Taproom he created a community for patrons and musicians alike to come together and share in his love for food and the arts.  He was a devoted son, beloved brother, and dedicated friend who left us too soon, but his warmth and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him.  Those of us lucky enough to know John understood the lengths he would go for people; you were lucky to have had him in your life. They say a strong man stands up for himself, but a stronger man stands up for others; if that is true than Johnny was one of the strongest people in the world. He regularly stood up to bullies and was an advocate for those not strong enough to speak for themselves. He had a fierce loyalty to the people he cared about and regularly put others above himself. John dedicated his life to nurturing relationships with family and friends. He believed that the most precious gift one could offer was time and attention, and he was always there to lend a helping hand or share a word of encouragement. Johnny loved animals and would regularly make donations to shelters. His caring nature touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on his community.  John cherished moments spent with his family, always prioritizing their happiness above all else. As we honor John’s memory, we find comfort in knowing his legacy of love and generosity will continue to inspire us.

John is survived by his father, Howard Killian, his mother, Natalie Horton, brothers, Thomas Killian (Sara) and Chris Horton (Katie), aunts, Lois Meyer (Greg) and Shelby Killian, cousins, Doohwan and Haleigh Killian, and nephews, Carter and Wyatt Horton, maternal grandparents, Harry and Shirley Horton, and his beloved dogs, Maggie Mae and Cleopatra.  He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Howard and Doo Hwan Killian and his uncle, John Killian.

A Life Celebration for Johnny will be held on Monday, November 25, 2024, visitation from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. followed by service at 6:00p.m. at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, 111 S. Queen Street, Rising Sun, MD 21911.  Burial will be held privately.