John Walter Stringer

John Walter Stringer was born August 7, 1940, in Robstown, TX to Carlos Stringer and Katie Wilson Kilpatrick. He spent most of his life as a resident of Corpus Christi and the surrounding area. Following his graduation from Roy Miller High School, John enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he earned an honorable discharge. John spent the next 39 years of his life working as the Traffic Safety Specialist for the Texas Department of Transportation in Corpus Christi where he retired in 1999. He spent the last 10 years of his life living in Arlington, TX with his partner and high school sweetheart, Carlene Young, until his passing on April 8, 2025.

John was a devoted follower and faithful servant of Jesus Christ. He was a longtime member of Calallen Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and gave countless hours to rebuilding the church, serving on committees, and building the sanctuary that worshippers attend today. He spread the Word to the Dominican Republic when the church traveled there to assist in rebuilding their community following devastation.

He lived his life with the unwavering spirit of “Semper Fi.” John never left home without his U.S. Marine Corps cover; he was so proud of being a Marine. He loved the outdoors; was a passionate hunter and gun collector, enjoying the challenge and beauty of the natural world. For many years John collected butterflies and moths, accumulating an extensive collection. He was also known for his exquisite gun engraving, beautiful paintings and handmade jewelry, extraordinary hand-crafted gun stocks/grips, duck decoys, ferry replicas, and delicious home-grown honey. John was very talented and was known for his meticulous woodworking skills and attention to detail. He enjoyed making something beautiful out of a piece of wood or a coin. His knowledge was abundant, and he loved sharing it with friends, family, and acquaintances who showed an interest. John also had a story to tell no matter the situation or topic. He had a gift that captivated his audiences when he spoke, often making folks laugh and putting them at ease. He touched many lives during his 84 years, even while in the hospital, the day before his death.

He is survived by his son Christopher and daughter-in-law Rhonda Stringer; daughter Stephanie and son-in-law Russell Roth; grandchildren Rebekah Stringer, Shannon Cox, Iain Stringer, Lauren Roth, Sydney Roth, and Kendall Roth; great grandchildren Hunter Jones, Harper Jones, and Theo Cox.

Visitation will be held  from 9:00-11:00 a.m. on April 18,2025 at Sawyer-George Funeral Home in Corpus Christi, TX

Graveside services will be held Friday, April 18, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery in Robstown, TX.