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James Kilgore Obituary

Rev. James L. Kilgore, fought a good fight, kept the faith, and finished this life on February 5, 2014. Pastor Kilgore was born on September 23, 1926 in Corning, AR. He is preceded in death by his spouse, Imogene Ellen Ritchie Kilgore, his parents, Rev. C.P. and Ella Kilgore, eight of his ten siblings, and his son-in-law, Rev. Daniel E. Calk. He is survived by daughters, Jan Madden and husband Rod; Jean Carlen and husband Mike; and Son, James Kilgore II and wife Nancy. Grandchildren; Christopher and Misty, and Danielle Calk. James Michael, Alexander and Hilary, and Joy Carlen. James (Bo) Kilgore III and Heather, Benjamin, and JoElla Lace Kilgore. Five Great-Grandchildren, Daniel, Evan and Liam Calk, Windsor Carlen, and Scarlett Kilgore.
One sister, Omeda Nichols. A host of nieces and nephews, Kilgore and Ritchie family members. The children of Rod Madden, Greg & Kristi Graham and Todd & Beth Madden and family. Rev. Kilgore entered the ministry at the age of eighteen. After a six-week, whirlwind courtship with the love of his life, James and Ima were married in Sherman, TX on September 12, 1950. They assumed the pastorate of the United Pentecostal Church in Paris, TX immediately following their honeymoon. In 1957, James and Ima Kilgore were called to be the pastor of Life Tabernacle located at the corner of Market & Rouse streets in Houston, TX. Under their dynamic leadership, the church experienced extraordinary growth, leading the congregation to 2950 Broadway and then to 9900 Almeda Genoa. Their dream of a ministry that spread the love of Christ to all was realized through bus ministry, teaching bible studies, Life Christian Academy, establishing churches throughout the Houston area and around the world through foreign missions. Pastor Kilgore loved foreign missions. In the last few years of ministry, his focus was on helping local Spanish churches and the Philippine Islands. He helped establish several Bible schools throughout the world including the Philippines, Africa, Asia and Central America and his son, Pastor Jim carries on this passion having established an orphanage, Ima's Home for Children in Angeles City, Philippines. Together, James and Ima traveled to many countries, teaching and ministering and establishing churches, schools and preaching points. He served as Pastor and Bishop of Life Tabernacle in Houston for over 57 years. He loved God's church and his church family with great joy. He also served as Assistant General Superintendent for the United Pentecostal Church International and District Superintendent of Texas for over 30 years. Time and eternity only will reveal the lives he touched and with whom he shared God's great love. From his local Starbuck's on Rowlett to large crowds, he was always the same, loving, caring and concerned for everyone. He truly leaves this world a better place with many souls added to God's kingdom. To God Be The Glory! His Grandsons will serve as Pallbearers. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Ima's Home for Children at www.life.cc, Online Giving or mail a check to the church address made out to Life Church and designate it for Ima's Home. Visitations will take place at Life Church, 9900 Almeda Genoa in Houston TX on Friday Feb. 7 from 6-8pm.and on Saturday Feb. 8 from 9-10 Saturday with a funeral service to begin promptly at 10 am. Interment will follow at Forest Park Lawdale Cemetery.

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Published by Houston Chronicle on Feb. 7, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for James Kilgore

Not sure what to say?





Timothy Hills

January 30, 2019

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Eddie Ferguson

January 30, 2019

In loving memory of the greatest man I've ever known. Pastor Kilgore had a tremendous burden and love for people. In 1975 a skinny 15 year kid came into Life Tabernacle and he opened his heart and himself to someone he didn't know and the time after I learned to love and appreciate the Kilgore family. Bishop Kilgore was a model man of God and Christian. His love for missions, outreach, prayer,the word,etc. etched in my heart a burning desire for ministry. Heaven added another true hero to God's hero hall of faith. I will always remember Pastor Kilgore and Sister Kilgore until we meet again in that great coronation in heaven.

Much love and respect

Taino Ruiz

April 13, 2017

This Man was the one of the most Anointed, Powerful, Loving, Kind, Soul Winner that i even heard of. I never meet him before i just honor because Pastor Kilgore prayed my dad through the holy ghost and my dad talks about him to me so therefore I'm always wonder what would it be next to Pastor Kilgore or even make him your own Pastor. Amen Pastor Kilgore I hope your having fun up there with our Heavenly Father

Deborah Valentine-Monk

March 31, 2014

Death leaves a heartache, no one can heal.....Love leaves a memory, no one can steal......you were a beautiful person, that taught me beautiful things, and special memories no one can steal. I love you forever.

February 27, 2014

thank you for your ministry at Texas Bible College. I am indebted to you for so much. You made a great impact on my life and ministry. Thank you til we meet on the other side. Rev. Edward R. Hughes, Auburn, Indiana

Camille Khan

February 26, 2014

What a wonderful man of God! So sorry to hear of the loss of pastor Kilgore, Sr. Such a privilege and a blessing to have been raised under such great leadership and truth. I will always remember his humility and kindness. My sincere condolences to the entire Kilgore family on behalf of my mother, sister Fredia who went to be with the Lord in 2010 and the Khan family.

Marlowe Driscoll

February 22, 2014

Elder::Papa K::: Best friend::I will miss you..!

LuAnn (Estes) Taylor

February 17, 2014

Our family was sad to hear of Uncle James passing away...sad for ya'll, but glad for him that he has now received his heavenly reward and is rejoicing with other family members gone on before him. And I know he will be greatly missed. We did not see him much, as we were many miles apart, but each time we were together, he was always so very kind and such a gentleman and always made us feel special to him. He was, in fact, my mom's (Roma June) favorite uncle. May God just wrap you up in His great big arms of love and carry you through this time. We love ya'll and you will be in our prayers. Horace Estes & Wade, LuAnn, Diane and Brian and our families

betty trekell

February 15, 2014

brother kilgore will be missed greatly but the angles are rejoying he up their now with brother o r fauess doing some great preaching

Rev. Terry Urich

February 15, 2014

I have been away from Texas for almost 20 years but often think of Bro. Kilgore. He was the sweetest and wisest, most humble Man of God that I have ever counseled with. He will be greatly missed. Our loss is Heaven's gain!

Allen and Sheri Dorries

February 11, 2014

Bro. Kilgore was a giant among men! He was a giant in devotion and dedication, he was a giant in love and concern, and he was a giant in leadership and direction. What an impact he made in thousands, and what an impact he made in the lives of Allen and Sheri Dorries!
Forever thankful,
Bro. and Sis. Dorries

Edna (Ulbrich) Miller

February 11, 2014

We'll certainly miss our sweet Bro. Kilgore. Thank God for Bro. Kilgore bringing the truth to our family. Thanks for the memories. We love you so much.

Ponipate Drodrolagi

February 11, 2014

The life and the death of the UPC!
If we only have 12 men like Bishop Kilgore today we can change our world.
Bishop can say "Follow me as I follow Christ!"

Hunter Dobson

February 10, 2014

There is no way to describe the impact that Papa K had on so many people's lives. I know that the words of Bro. Kilgore will forever stay in my heart and I love Jesus even more because of the wonderful ministry of our sweet Papa K.

David Danvers

February 10, 2014

Jan, Jean, and Jimbo… What can be said that has not already been written here and told about your Dad at the wonderful memorial service? I was blessed to have been with you all live over the internet here in Shanghai in the middle of the night! Brother Kilgore was and is a gentle, humble giant among us mere mortals. As I have said to many people over the years, he was so instrumental in shaping me as a young Christian back in 1972. Seems like yesterday, doesn't it? I loved your Dad and your sweet Mom, too, and the way they always remembered me over the years and made me feel so loved. Each of you, too, have that gift that only comes from above. It is a time to rejoice, as they are now reunited around Him at the throne with so many others…! God bless you and the entire Kilgore and Ritchie Families!

Eddie Ferguson

February 10, 2014

Stephanie Sciba

February 10, 2014

Truly heaven and my parents are rejoicing with Pappa K. Thank you for touching our lives!

Eddie Ferguson

February 10, 2014

Elaine Wright

February 10, 2014

I will always remember him singing old hymns acappello as the spirit moved him. His smile and genuine love brightened the day for all who knew him. I know he is now part of the heavenly choir.

michael albrecht

February 10, 2014

we have lost a great friend and pastor, we can only cherish your memory until we meet again in glory

Rayford Strange

February 10, 2014

Could I write a poem of enduring worth
of a man of God who touched upon earth
A blessed man whom is said had from the start
great love for men and a soul winner's heart
He came to us with divine wisdom and passion
caring naught for flattery and worldly fashion
For souls without number have I heard him pray
with tender burden upon him they did weigh
With holy doctrine straight, pure and bright
He showed us heaven's love and supernal light
he is now taken from us and we shall mourn
for a while as the pain of his passing has born
the grand realization that his death is no defeat
But of Heaven's beauty, joy and love complete
On the eve of your funeral I see you in a vision clear
Keeling at the feet of One who shall wipe every tear
Now from the blessed words of your loving refrain
I recall your passionate song with a note of love so plain:

"Oh they say there'll be no sighing,
when at last life's race here is run.
But how can I keep from crying,
when I thank Him for what He has done.

When I thank him for what He has done,
I must look back to the crucified one.
On that beautiful shore,
let me kneel just once more,
Just to thank Him for what He has done." your thankful son, Rayford

robert prince

February 10, 2014

I have known Rev.James Kilgore thru the years and as far as I am concerend, you will find no Greater Man in leather Shoes who walked the Earth to&fro and was about GODS work. His warm smile&hearty hand shake touch my heart. My former Pastor; Rev. Johnny Harrell spoke highly of Rev. Kilgore and I said to myself, I would love to meet him and I did at Texas Camp-meeting, in Lufkin,Tx. He loved the Lord with all his Heart. Rest a little while Rev. Kilgore, your in JESUSES arms NOW!! God bless your family, in JESUS name!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Marlon Gaines

February 10, 2014

...planet earth lost a great man and heaven is having a celebration this week...

Craig McCracken

February 9, 2014

What a incredible impact James L. Kilgore made through the years in our lives. The Kilgore's will always be like family to us. This great man of God will truly be missed! May God richly bless and comfort the Kilgore and Life Church family.

Veronica Sifuentes-Maignaud

February 9, 2014

Pastor Kilgore was a true man of God. He will be missed. Even though my family and I our saden by the loss. We also rejoice in knowing he is in heaven walking side by side with our heavenly Father.

Sister Kilgore gave this picture to my sisters, Irma, Yolanda, and me.

Mela Bohannon

February 9, 2014

Sean Taylor

February 9, 2014

A Great Man of God
That Will be Greatly Missed

Louis Holub, Sr.

February 9, 2014

May peace and joy remain with the Kilgore Family through the many continuing wonderful memories of Bishop Kilgore ! May Life Tabernacle continue in a wonderful future of growth, and miracles, and signs, and wonders. God Bless the Kilgores, and Life Tabernacle. Love, Louis Holub, Sr.

James Johnson

February 9, 2014

God bless the Kilgore family at this time, especially, my friend, Jim. I regret, due to travel, I could not attend the funeral.

As a young minister, I looked up to James Kilgore as a hero of the faith. He was always kind and friendly to me as just a Bible School student. I was invited in 1986 to speak at a Youth Weekend event at Life Tabernacle. James Kilgore treated me as a prince. Later when I visited Life with JCM's choral he saw me in the hall and greeted me personally by name. Afterword, several of the young aspiring ministers from JCM, in awe, asked me how I knew Pastor Kilgore, the Assistant General Superintendent of the UPCI. It was amusing. Bro. Kilgore had a way of making nobodies feel like somebodies! He made a deep and lasting impression on me with his deep spirituality and great personality. God bless the memory of James Kilgore.

Julie Stephens

February 9, 2014

I was so saddened to hear of Bro. Kilgore's passing. I was saved in his church, Life Tabernacle in 1985! I so loved my first pastor like no other! My condolences to the entire family for your loss.

February 9, 2014

A great man of God,will always be rememberd
Bro and Sis Griese

R J & Diane Wooten

February 9, 2014

Bishop Kilgore was a great leader, pastor & friend. He Made an everlasting impression on our lives that will never be forgotten. We will see you again in a Heavenly place. Thank you for all your love. You will always be the greatest.
Rev. R J & Diane Wooten

Gervais Rabot

February 9, 2014

Such a great man of God.His preaching will always be a blessing to me. Rest in peace champion of faith!

February 9, 2014

Bishop Kilgore was truly a "Gentle Shepherd" with the spirit of compassion, humility and kindness. Being the giant of a man that he was, my prayer is that his mantle will be large enough to cover us all. Our prayers of comfort, love, and peace are for the family. Joyce, Don & Ryan Mason Covington, Georgia

Glenn Murphy,Jr.

February 9, 2014

May Jesus comfort each of the family with His ability to be the God of all comfort.My family was greatly enriched by Bro. Kilgore's examples of kindness and generosity and love.

Ken Hartless

February 9, 2014

Today, I have been reminded of different key phrases that I thought Bro. Kilgore had said, but, it turned out to be the words of Jesus. What a Godly man when you are not sure if it was Bro. Kilgore or Jesus that said certain key phrases through out his life. Bro. Kilgore would say "One life will soon be past and only what's done for Christ will last".

Christopher Stieglitz

February 9, 2014

Precious Pastor Kilgore, because of you and your love I can never really call another preacher "Pastor". You taught me. You corrected me. You guided me. You prayed for me. Thank you for teaching me the importance of prayer and praise. Thank you for supporting Deaf Ministry so that I could "hear" the Word. Because of you many others in other languages are saved. Thank you for loving Truth and preaching it. Thank you for waving "ILY" to us from the platform. I will see you again someday. -- Christopher Stieglitz

Penny Hart

February 8, 2014

A honor to have known him, and to be blessed to know his spirt of giving. He gave everything that all walks of life could know God in the fullness.

Mike & Monica Zuber

February 8, 2014

Bro. Kilgore was such a great man of God that has touched so many lives. My thoughts and prayers for this sweet, caring family.

February 8, 2014

To all the family of this great man. Thank you for sharing him with us. I will never forget the many times I sat and listened to him speak to all the young ministers at General Conference. He impacted us greatly. May the Lord comfort and keep you always. John Cameron, UPC of Oxnard, Ca.

Dallas Collins

February 8, 2014

Bro Kilgore was one of the most Amazing People I have ever met! 21 years ago myself and two buddies flew from Indiana to Houston to visit Texas Bible College and Life Church. I have never forgotten our Experience: the three of us slipped in and found seats in the back of the sanctuary Bro and Sis Kilgore came by to greet us and invited us to sit with Sis Kilgore up near the front. That simple act of kindness and caring to three teenagers has always stuck with me. There were hundreds of other people and things they could have been tending too, but the fact that they took out time to make us feel welcomed was really amazing to me and I will always remember there kindness. Love them both!

Trevor Neil

February 8, 2014

I was blessed to serve with this great man of God.

Trevor Neil

February 8, 2014

I was blessed to serve with this great man of God.

Judy Dingle

February 8, 2014

RIP. You will be missed. Prayers for the family.

Wendy Rivas

February 8, 2014

Dear Bishop Kilgore preached many life-changing and touching sermons, but the greatest of all was without words...His life. Exemplifying God's love for people. He will be missed. He will be remembered always. Grateful to have met him. We rejoice in his triumph, legacy and memory.

Eddie Ferguson

February 8, 2014

Pastor Kilgore could be called by many titles but the one that describe him best is "Father" he has truly brought many sons and daughters to glory. I am proud to call him my spiritual father,time would fail me to tell the eternal impact and investment he has made in my life and family. Love was embodied in him ,his love exceeded all bounds race,creed, and color. He was a modern day Apostle like Paul, a pattern of good works. Our prayers and heart goes out to Jan,Jean and Pastor Jim and their families during this time of loss and grief. To all my brothers and sisters in Christ let's keep his legacy and memory alive by doing good works and loving one another until we all meet him and Mother Kilgore again in the sweet bye and bye with our Savior Jesus Christ. Love Always

Wesley Swanson

February 8, 2014

Bishop Kilgore was my greatest inspiration and spiritual father. His sermons on “The Blood of Jesus Christ” and “The Cross and the World” are timeless and they are still in my mind. Bishop Kilgore has a way of communicating with others with his eyes and expressions. He encourages us to follow Jesus Christ. He taught us to be sensitive to the Lord. Psalms 32:8 says “ I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” Bishop Kilgore made people feel at ease. He was the greatest pastor. I thank God for Bishop Kilgore. Love you and miss you. The Swanson family.

Melodee & Darrell Alexander

February 8, 2014

What an honor it has been to know Papa K! I can definitely see his kindness in his children. The memorial service inspired me to be a better Christian and I know that is what Papa K would have desired from his memorial. We'll miss you, Papa K, and we will never forget you. See you in Heaven.

February 8, 2014

Bro. KILGORE WAS A GREAT TEACHER AND LEADER . I LEARNED SO MUCH FROM MY FOUR YEARS AT TEAXAS BIBLE COLLEGE. WE MEET AGAIN IN OUR HEAVENLY HOME. THANK YOU BRO. KILGORE FOR ALL YOUR LOVE AND WISDOM!!,
DAVIC C. ROWSWELL

Marta Martinez

February 8, 2014

Thank u Bishop Kilgore for all your love and support. You lead us with example to love God with all our hearts , soul & might. Thank you for all you deposited in each one of us through out the world. You indeed made this world a better place walking with Jesus and teaching everyone of us about the Lord. We will miss you so much but are forever loved by all. Prayers for all the Kilgore family and brothers and sisters in Christ. THANK YOU LORD FOR THE TIME YOU GAVE US BISHOP KILGORE.

Morgan Mwanza

February 8, 2014

Though we are thousand of miles away in Africa, you were a blessing to us through you anointed sermons that came into our hands on tapes. Thank you for being such a blessing to us! You have run your race and finished your course.

debra guerrero

February 8, 2014

I thank the Lord for allowing me to meet this great man.I know he is with our savior rejoicing. Will be missed.

Kelvin Shaw

February 8, 2014

Hero of the Faith!
2 Timothy 4:6-8
The Message (MSG)
6-8 You take over. I'm about to die, my life an offering on God's altar. This is the only race worth running. I've run hard right to the finish, believed all the way. All that's left now is the shouting—God's applause! Depend on it, he's an honest judge. He'll do right not only by me, but by everyone eager for his coming.

My Hero

Immanuel Calvar

February 8, 2014

Immanuel Calvar

February 8, 2014

Words cannot describe the impact this man has had on my life and for so many others as well. Dedicated by Pappa K at age 3 and ever since I have never known a more compassionate person. A true patriarch of his day, he will forever live in our hearts.

Michel and Jennifer Heimoz, Pastor

February 8, 2014

We will forever be grateful for the Truth that was planted in our hearts throught the ministry of Pastor James L. Kilgore.

Mlchelle Norwood

February 8, 2014

I will miss him so much. but if had to go l am so glad he is with Jesus. l get such comfort and peace.

Martin Pape

February 8, 2014

It was an privilege to know Bishop Kilgore. He was an loving man of god who was very helpful and giving in the community. My prayers go out to the Kilgore family.

Jean Witt

February 8, 2014

30 years ago You called me in for a "sit down" with you and Sis. Kilgore. This meeting would change my life forever. I left that meeting confused. I have replayed our conversation a million times...I KNEW there was something in our exchange that day that was "suppose" to be "answered" or "defined" the Holy Spirit NEVER allowed your words to ever be to far from my heart.
Today, ..Because of your carefully worded answer... To my directly asked question...."Bro. Kilgore.. DO Y O U believe ......?" I understand the answer you gave me was the truth from James Leroy Kilgore's personal belief. And I understand, now, that I sat in that office with A TRUE SHEPHERD WHO TENDED HIS SHEEP, AND KNEW THE SACRIFICE OF HIS PERSON TO PROTECT THEM. I love you and will never forget the man who, when asked, spoke his truth.
Always,
Jean Witt

Elizabeth Taylor

February 8, 2014

PRAYING IN JESUS NAME FOR COMFORT AND STRENGTH FOR THE FAMILY LEFT BEHIND. BROTHER KILGORE WAS LOVED AND APPRECIATED BY A WORLD OF MANY SAINTS. HE HAS GONE ON TO HIS REWARD. LOTS OF PRAYERS GOING UP IN ARKANSAS. HE WILL BE MISSED GREATLY

Sharon Barrow

February 8, 2014

I was a child impacted and drawn to Life Tabernacle by his bus ministry. I was a teenager who sat under his powerful ministry and teaching at Texas Youth Camps. I was a young adult who was guided by his wisdom and leadership at Texas Bible College. I am a more than middle-aged adult who cherishes all that I have received through the love and ministry of Rev. James L. Kilgore. He has been a true guiding light of our age and everyone lucky enough to have sat under that light to learn more of Jesus has been richly blessed and eternally changed. Thank you Father God, for letting me have this wonderful Christian leader in my life. Many prayers for strength and blessing are sent to Jan, Jean and Jim and their families as they continue to prepare to see him again.

Karen (Cain) Nichols

February 8, 2014

Thank You for giving me a great heritage, awesome anointed preaching, treasured memories of great services. I am forever indebted to your faithfulness to my generation. Therefore, with God's help I shall pass this heritage of truth on to generations following me. Thank you for everything you have done. You have left me with great values. One of my favorite leaders. Love you and will miss you much.
From: Woodland TX Pentecostal Church

December 28, 1991

Lily Hernandez

February 8, 2014

Bishop Kilgore always showed us love, care, and compassion. We will miss seeing his smile and hearing his kind loving words. He has impacted all of us in a very special way. His love and kindness will always live in our hearts. Until we meet again, Papa K.
Will, Lily, Tyara, Erika, and Sofia Hernandez.

Pastor Judson Yelverton

February 8, 2014

Such a strong man and at the same time such a gentle spirit. The true definition of a Christian. He labored faithfully and his reward will be great. We love you Bro. & Sis. Carlen, Chris & Misty and all the family. Carry on the great legacy....

William Summitt

February 8, 2014

It was our priviledge to be under the ministry of a man who was Pastored and mentored by Rev. James Kilgore for several years. This great man taught me how to pray by example. Thank you Kilgore family for sharing your love one with the world.

Paul Estrada

February 8, 2014

Rev. Kilgore exemplified Christianity and his deep burden for humanity was unmatched. We mourn his loss with the Kilgore family. Blessings from the Rio Grande Valley-McAllen,TX. WE pray God's love always and His strength for all of the church family world-wide. May His passion burn in us all...

Adam and Frankie Fontenet

February 8, 2014

Our love and prayers are with the entire Kilgore family as we celebrate e life of Pastor Kilgore.

Curtis & Jo Alice Young

February 8, 2014

We were saddened by the passing of Bro. James Kilgore. His kind and gentle spirit will always be remembered. He stood in our wedding in the place of Curtis' father 51 years ago and will always have a special place in our hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the family.

Michelle Channon

February 8, 2014

? pretty much says it all.

I can almost hear it as if witnessing it from afar…as God called to this soldier of the cross in that last moment as he exchanged mortality for immortality…“‘Well done, thy good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; …Come and share your master's happiness!” (Matthew 25:23)

Tammie Griffin

February 8, 2014

My love and prayers are with the Kilgore family. I pray for Gods grace, peace and love be with through this time.

Ruby Wooley

February 8, 2014

Bro Kilgore will be remembered by us as a great, gentle, sacrificial leader who stood for and extended truth throughout the world and especially in Texas.

February 8, 2014

David and Kimberly Buckmuller

Davida Stike

February 8, 2014

Jan, know that Walt and I are with you in prayer and celebration for a life well lived.

Michael LaBrie

February 8, 2014

Love and Prayers

Hope Guerrero

February 8, 2014

I loved Pastor Kilgore he was an awesome man of God and he always made you feel welcomed and special he will be greatly missed.

Dan Switzer

February 8, 2014

My wife and I attended TBC in the 70's while Bro. Kilgore was President. Bro. Kilgore had a tremendous impact on our lives. I will always remember his kindness and love for all.

Karen Green

February 8, 2014

Will always remember your love. I would not have been here without you.
Karen Gibbs Green

Stephanie Hilton Waldo

February 8, 2014

I am forever grateful for Bishop James Kilgore that I had the privilege to call Pastor on Broadway many years ago. Many changes since then but Bishop James Kilgore was the same through and through. Always loving, giving and compassionate about God's word! Praying for his family!

Bertha Scoggins

February 8, 2014

Our love and prayers are with the entire Kilgore family, as well as, with all Life Tab members across the world. The Scoggins Family will forever be blessed just knowing and serving this wonderful family. We love you! Love our sweet Bro. Kilgore...

Elevorio Castaneda

February 8, 2014

I remember meeting Rev. James Kilgore on an elevator in Alexandria La. prior to attending BOTT in1993. The year before i had been asking Jesus to allow me to meet one of His apostles and the answer didn't come until this encounter with Rev. Kilgore.
When I stepped into the elevator i recognized a peace that was proceeding from this man, and than Jesus reached out of him and touched me saying; "this is one of my apostles"
It was than that Rev. James Kilgore spoke to me and ask if I was here to attend BOTT.
I replied yes ...
He than made this statement: "young man you are going to have an experience that will for ever change your life"
This occurred when I would meet the 2nd apostle during BOTT 1993 , and he would call me out of the audience to pray for him, Rev Billy Cole.
The prophetic words of Rev James Kilgore during that season of my life were spoken with truth.
The genuine walk that Rev James Kilgore had with Jesus has inspired me and only heaven will tell the story of how many others, to have this same relationship with Jesus.
He has now gone on to see Jesus face to face.
Love you Rev James L. Kilgore and I'll meet you in Heaven!...

Pastor Gene Kessler

February 8, 2014

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Danielle Bowers

February 8, 2014

My family and I attended Life Tabernacle during the early 90s. My Dad was attending TBC so we made Life our home church. I was just a preteen then but this man made such an impact on my life. The absolute most humble man I've ever known. May his spirit live on in us. -Danielle Anderson Bowers

Ericka Wainstein Gordillo

February 8, 2014

I love you papa "K"! Will miss you greatly?

Jeremy Byrn

February 8, 2014

Papa K surprised me when I had been in South Texas for nine months and I came back, and before service started he walked up to me and said "We finally got you back". I didn't know he had even been thinking about me, and it meant so much for him to say that. It showed he really cares about even the least of us. What a great man. I know he is rejoicing in the presence of the Lord now, and I eagerly await the day I can join with him.

Elizabeth Vaughn

February 8, 2014

We shall miss Bishop James Kilgore, another Soldier Going Home !

Elizabeth Boone Vaughn
Brazoria, Texas

Elevorio Castaneda

February 8, 2014

I was praying in 1992 asking Jesus about the apostles of the Book of Acts, and just asked Him if He would allow me to meet one in the day of which I lived.
Well it was 1993 and I would be attending BOTT for the very first time. I checked into my motel and went to the elevator and when the door opened there stood Rev. James Kilgore, there was a peace that proceeded from this man, and than Jesus reached out of him and touched me saying; "this is one of my Apostles"...
It was than that Rev. James Kilgore turn and asked me if I was here for BOTT ?
I answered yes!
He than made this statement to me; "young man you are going to have an experience that will for ever change your life"
This experience happen when the 2nd Apostle I would meet, called me out of the audience to pray for him that year at BOTT, Rev. Billy Cole.
The genuine walk with Jesus that Apostle James L. Kilgore has with Him, now has taken him home to see Jesus face to face.

Joyce Lacy

February 8, 2014

To all of the Kilgore Family:

Wish I could have been able to share in the home going of this awesome man of God. He and Sis. Kilgore have been special friends of my family since the days they pastored in Paris and I lived in Longview. Both of them were truly an example of great Christians. May God be with Pastor Jim, Jan, Jean and their families and give them strength in the days to come. Love to all of you.

Kay Gibbons

February 8, 2014

Bro. Kilgore preached the whole gospel , he had a heart for the lost.

Julie Bernard Quammie

February 8, 2014

Great man of God my family and I are bless to be a member of Life for 24 years will never forget Life on Broadway we love you Papa Kilgore. Condolence to Pastor Jim and the family we love you Pastor.

Elaine Long

February 8, 2014

We were honored to have this man in our lives. Never have I seen anyone with so much love and compassion for others. He has blessed our family many times with such words of wisdom and understanding. He was truly a great man of God and our hearts are heavy at the loss of this precious man. He is resting in the arms of Jesus now. Gone but never forgotten.

Josh Proske

February 8, 2014

Praying for the family and friends of this great man of God!! I visited the church a few times and he will be missed but will see him again one day

jacalyn sharp

February 7, 2014

I remember bro d.l. Welch always talking about bro. Kilgore,condolences to the family.

William Burdick

February 7, 2014

Good man of God, gone on to his well deserved reward.

Nathan Mean

February 7, 2014

A kind and noble man. We shall miss him.

Judy Argo

February 7, 2014

Bro. Kilgore ... lead by example, strong impact, we will forever remember! Judy, Eric, Jazz, & Strat Garcia (Austin Texas)

Donovan Lindo

February 7, 2014

Bro Kilgore was great man of God and prayer. You will great miss Papa Kilgore , You always practice what you preach while at TBC you have encourage me to keep the faith.


Donovan Lindo( Los Angeles CA

Ken Rushing

February 7, 2014

Brother Kilgore was one of the finest men in Pentecost. Such a gentleman and scholar to say the least. I visited Life Tabernacle in 89-91 and absolutely fell in love with the Kilgores and the entire church family there. Such sweet folks.

February 7, 2014

Bishop Kilgore. A great man of God!! Truly exemplary!

Tralisa Fisher

February 7, 2014

I remember the first time I met Pastor Kilgore, I was 18 years old and out of all the many years that I have come to know him and his wonderful family his love for the church and everyone in it never changed. He always had a kind word for me and made me feel important. When I found the man of my dreams he married us and brought us together. Their so many things I could say about this great man of god, but I know Pastor and Mrs Kilgore are together watching over us.

Jerry Dean

February 7, 2014

It is an understatement to say Bro. Kilgore impacted my life as a young minister and student at TBC. I still have the notes I took during his sermon "Generation At The Crossroads" at general conference years ago. Life a Tabernacle was the #1 church in UPC for many years in missions giving and motivated all of us. Thanks Bro. Kilgore.

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