John Greenebaum

On the surface, John Greenebaum was a man of few words, his dry wit slipping into conversations like a well-placed lyric. But those who knew him, and the many more who heard his music, understand that his talent was an integral part of a time on Music Row when “three chords and the truth” still meant everything.

From his home in Highland Park, Illinois, John co-wrote and pitched songs to publishers in Nashville, eventually landing Billboard #5 and #1 hits for Mel Tillis. After watching Mel perform John’s #1 Hit “Heart Healer” on The Tonight Show, he moved to Nashville to pursue songwriting full time.

Between 1976 and 1995, John co-wrote a string of hits for country legends including Mel Tillis, Janie Fricke, Charley Pride, Tammy Wynette, Merle Haggard, Ed Bruce, Alabama, Reba McEntire, Keith Whitley, Dobie Grey, Bill Medley, and John Berry. His most famous hit, “Third Rock From the Sun”, took Joe Diffie to #1 and reminded everyone that country music could be funny and smart at the same time. The song even inspired the title of a hit TV show.

Off the page, John was a man of steady joys: following his hometown Chicago Cubs, chasing a lower handicap on the golf course, cheering on the Tennessee Titans (even when they tested his patience), and spending four decades building a life with his beloved wife Mary. Together, they shared a love for dogs and their current dog, Bob, stayed faithfully by John's side until the very end, offering comfort as only a best friend can. John passed away with quiet dignity, surrounded by love.

As a big brother, John dedicated his life to caring for his little sister with special needs and their bond was unmatched- no matter what her challenges were. With her passing 21 months ago, a part of his heart went with her.

John Greenebaum didn’t say much — but when he did, it stuck with you. And when he wrote, it sang. His countless songs will still echo on the radio, in record collections and in the memories of those who knew the man behind the music.

John is preceded in death by his parents John and Louise Greenebaum (Guggenheim), his sister Jill Erbe, and Uncle, Dick Guggenheim. He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years Mary Grant, Brothers-in-law Phil Erbe, David Grant (Sherry), Tom Grant (Beverly), Jack Grant (Debbie), Sister-in-law Carole Grant-Edgington (Larry), Cousins Paul Guggenheim (Debbie), Jenny Gummersall (Greg), Aunt Gail Guggenheim and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A memorial service/celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to the Friends of Williamson County Animal Center in Franklin, TN. (https://friendsofwilliamsoncountyanimalcenter-bloom.kindful.com/)