John Merlin Guthrie III, known to all as Jock, a beloved husband, brother and uncle, died January 18, 2024 in Ridgewood, New Jersey, surrounded by family. He was 71.
Jock, the eldest of five siblings, was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin on July 7, 1952, to Philippa Guthrie and Dr. John Guthrie Jr., and graduated from Abbot Pennings High School and St. Norbert College. He moved to Syracuse, New York and later, New York City and environs.
An accomplished guitarist and vocalist, he joined his first band at 14 and was in the music business for the rest of his life, often performing with his brother, Jeb. For the last 30 years, Jock and Jeb appeared as a duo act, “The Guthrie Brothers.” They released an eponymous album to critical acclaim and toured the country entertaining audiences with their easy banter and close harmonies.
Jock leaves behind his wife and love of his life, Diana Sweetland, whom he called “Dove,”and is also survived by his siblings Jeb Guthrie (Carol Vecchione); Louisa Guthrie (Brian Briggs); Philippa Guthrie (Alex Tanford); and Honor Guthrie (Roger Cary); and nieces and nephews Joseph and Francesca Guthrie; Jack and Grace Briggs; and Philippa and James Tanford.
A celebration of Jock’s life is planned, with details to be posted on The Guthrie Brothers Facebook page in the coming weeks.