John Roland Showalter

John Roland Showalter, 81, of Asheville, North Carolina, passed away on December 30, 2023. He was born on April 3, 1942, in Mansfield, Ohio, to the late Rev. Roland Leroy Showalter and Edna Mae Burkhart Showalter. John was deeply loyal to his family and was a respected professor at Warren Wilson College for 40 years.

John's educational journey began at Bellaire High School and McKinley High School in Ohio. He furthered his studies at Maryville College in Tennessee and the University of Illinois in Champlain.

Outside of his career, John had a variety of hobbies and interests. He enjoyed organ music, gothic architecture, history, railroads, tractors, and genealogy. His passion for these subjects brought him joy throughout his life.

Survived by his beloved wife, Catherine Showalter (Brutsch), John leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication to his family. He is also survived by his children, Wendy Meyer (Greg Capps), Mark Showalter (Kim), and Philip Showalter (Eddana), as well as his grandchildren, Vincent, Jonathan, Blakely, Eiley, Victoria, and Vanessa. He is also survived by his siblings, Tom Showalter (Sandy), Jim Showalter, Jane Sawyer (Harlan), and Joe Showalter (Linda McPhail).

A funeral service to honor John's life will be held on January 13, 2023, at 1:00 pm at Warren Wilson Presbyterian Church in Asheville, NC. In memory of John, contributions can be made to the Riceville Fire Department.

Asheville Area Alternative Funeral & Cremation Services, LLC, located at 702 Riverside Dr., Asheville, NC 28801, is assisting the family with the funeral arrangements.

John Roland Showalter will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration for those who mourn his loss.