John G. Drury

Picture it. Chicago, January 5, 1942, a feisty Irish baby boy was born to the proud William Drury and Catherine O’Hern Drury. They decided to name him John George Drury. Little did they know how this feisty baby would forever change the lives of so many throughout his lifetime. John was born as the 3 rd child of 5 into this proud Irish Catholic family, At the young age 16, he lost his father William. John married in his early 20’s to now ex-wife Luella Drury, having 4 daughters. His favorite saying was “next to oxygen my daughters are my greatest necessity.” His daughters Natalie Drury (Termanas), Renee Drury, Michele Drury and Katie Drury are so very proud of whom their father had become in his life. John is predeceased by his mother Catherine O’Hern Drury, his older sister Catherine Drury Kent and younger brother William Drury, Jr. He is survived by his brothers, Paul Drury and Joseph Drury. John had an overabundance of love from more nephews and nieces than one family could ever hope for.

John was truly blessed to have 3 families. His natural, biological family being first. In 1984 the AA community welcomed John with open arms and quickly became his steadfast second family. Throughout his decades in AA he was a mentor to many. His faith in God and the program guided him through life and very difficult times. His goal was to one day leave this earth still sober. He became a permanent friend of Bill W. He also began volunteering at Fox Valley Animal Hospital in Crystal Lake as a part time maintenance staff member. His passion for animals and the staff there was enormous. He considered them all family.

John often visited local nursing homes bringing flowers for elderly women and gifts for men, never wanting anyone to be left without visitors.

John was a skilled electrician and helped many that couldn’t afford services at no cost. He was a simple man with simple needs. His love of grocery shopping, cooking, going to meetings and spending time with his daughters were his routine. He loved talking on the phone and meeting friends for coffee. His love for Crystal Lake was extraordinary. He considered this home and even though he talked of traveling he never did; he was content just being home.

Cancer tried to take John out several times in life, he kept getting back up after each diagnosis. He fought like a champion and astounded many in the medical field with his will, determination and pure stubbornness. He was a rebel, a fighter and a true legend. His quick wit and sarcasm were charming. Even at the very end, his influential spirit, mighty and proud, his significant, unique ways of kindness would plow through a room like a bulldozer. He was a wonderful father, dearest friend and asset to the community. Even though his light is in heaven now, it will always be deep within those that knew him and loved him. John passed peacefully on March 18, 2022 with an AA coin clenched in his fist reaching his goal of leaving this earth still sober.

Visitation will be 4pm until the memorial service at 7:30pm, Thursday, April 7th at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave (Route 176), Crystal Lake.

In lieu of flowers the family asks you donate to a local animal shelter either monetarily, with supplies or volunteering.