John Robert Lilyestrom

John Robert Lilyestrom, 63, of Gaithersburg, MD, passed away unexpectedly on January 5, 2026. He was born on April 26, 1962, in Worcester, MA, to Bob and Betty Lilyestrom and grew up alongside his younger sister, Katy. John attended St. John's High School, where he excelled academically, particularly in math and science. A National Merit Scholar, John was also an Eagle Scout and an active member of the chess club, the Model United Nations, and the school's bowling league.

He went on to attend Harvard University, where he enjoyed hosting a late-night show on station WHRB featuring punk rock music. John graduated from Harvard with a Bachelor of Arts in Engineering in 1985. He then pursued his law degree at the University of Maryland, earning his Juris Doctor in 1989.

He built a distinguished career in energy utility regulation, working at Hogan Lovells from 1995 until his retirement, where he was made a partner. John represented electric utility companies, electric power marketers, and independent power producers before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, as well as in federal and state courts. In 2009, he was recognized by Chambers USA as a leading lawyer in Energy: Electricity (Regulation & Litigation), an honor he continued to receive every year thereafter.

While working as an associate at Newman & Holzinger in 1989, John met Emily, whom he married in June of 1996. They built a home in Gaithersburg, MD, where they raised their two daughters, Margaret and Clare. John and Emily adopted both girls from China, Margaret in 2002 and Clare in 2004. He is survived by his beloved wife, Emily, their children, Margaret and Clare, as well as his sister Katy, her husband Tim, and their children, Michael, Meaghan, and Danny. He also leaves behind his two adored dogs, Andie and Grace, who were his constant companions.

John will be remembered for his sharp mind, witty humor, and deep loyalty to the people and passions he loved. One of the smartest people many will ever have known, he was a man of few words whose brilliance spoke for itself. Above all, he was a devoted and deeply supportive husband and father, always showing up to Margaret and Clare's sporting events and extracurriculars as their biggest cheerleader.

A lifelong fan of the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots, John later proudly added his daughters' schools, the Florida Gators and the Purdue Boilermakers, to the teams he cheered for. He also enjoyed relaxing on family vacations, photography, cooking, a good cup of coffee, and taking long walks around the neighborhood with his dogs, especially when it meant spending time with those he loved.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and loved him.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.tyreefuneralhome.com

The family of John Lilyestrom is being cared for by Tyree Funeral Home, Oak Hill.