John Thomas Kilpatrick

John Thomas Kilpatrick, age 77, passed away on January 15, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee, just one day after his birthday. He was born on January 14, 1949, at Boyce Clinic in Hohenwald, Tennessee, to the late John Alan Kilpatrick and Emma Louise Davis Kilpatrick

John was a man of faith, quiet strength, and steady calm; a truly great man by every measure. He lived his life simply and honestly, finding joy in everyday moments: sitting on the porch with a cup of coffee, keeping up with TikTok, and sharing conversations that often came with a dry smile and a bit of wisdom.

Known by his CB handle, "Sugar Foot," John spent much of his life as a truck driver, but his talents went far beyond the road. He was a gifted mechanic, electrician, and craftsman, able to fix or build just about anything. Few knew that he was also a cabinet maker, a skill taught to him by his Uncle Luke, but those closest to him saw that talent firsthand. When his partner Ruthie casually mentioned wanting a sewing closet, John built it for her that very night.

John was lovingly known as "Pops," a name that reflected the role he cherished most. He deeply loved not only his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, but Ruthie's as well, embracing them as his own and finding great pride in each of them.

He was known for his sayings, always delivered with perfect timing and a calm grin. When asked, "How are you feeling?" his reply was, "with my fingers." And when someone asked, "What's up?" John would answer, "rent and taxes." Those words, like him, were simple, honest, and unforgettable.

In addition to his parents, John and Emma, he was also preceded in death by his wife, Lena Virginia Tanner Kilpatrick, his son, John Adam Kilpatrick, and his siblings, Virginia Pulley, Louise Pulley Butler, and Dwight David Kilpatrick.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his partner of 16 years, Ruthie Nutt; his son, David Wayne (Robin) Kilpatrick; daughter-in-law, Stephanie Ann Kilpatrick; children of the heart, Lynn (Iris) Carroll and Shelia Frazier; siblings, Ralph Pulley, James A. Kilpatrick, Linda F. Kilpatrick Morris, Patsy A. Kilpatrick Wilson, Ruby N. Kilpatrick Pace; 21 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 18th from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and again on Monday, January 19th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at McDonald Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held on Monday, January 19th at 1:00 in Lewis County Memorial Gardens.