In Memoriam: John H. Guy IV, Beloved Menokin Trustee and Friend

We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of our longtime friend and Board member, John H. Guy IV, on July 3, 2025.

John’s relationship with Menokin began in 2001, and over the next 24 years, he and his wife Perry were steadfast donors, generous with both their time and resources. He first joined the Menokin Board of Trustees in 2005, serving as Treasurer for six of his nine years until he termed out in 2014. He rejoined the Board in 2022, again serving as Treasurer and most recently as Vice President.

John brought a heartfelt commitment to historic preservation and played an important role
in shaping Menokin’s development as a maturing organization. Serving as Deputy Executive Director of the National Petroleum Council for over 50 years, John’s professional expertise was invaluable in helping a young Menokin Foundation sharpen its financial planning and strategic thinking. As Board Treasurer before, during and after COVID, he played a central role in guiding the Foundation’s financial planning and charting a long-term path toward sustainability and growth.

John’s deep Virginia roots brought valuable networks and warm connections to Menokin. He consistently encouraged partnerships with other preservation projects across the Commonwealth.

An avocational architect who designed his own home, John was curious and hands-on with all of Menokin’s work. He was passionately committed to Menokin’s architectural story and preservation mission. John’s gentle manner of speaking and his keen sense of humor made him an effective leader and a consensus-building voice on the Board. His presence enriched both staff and Board in countless ways, as did his unwavering belief in the national importance of Menokin’s work, tucked away as it is in Virginia’s Northern Neck. John also served as an honorary trustee of Preservation Virginia, underscoring his statewide impact in the field. His contributions to Menokin are immeasurable, and he will be sorely missed.