Rev. Dr. John Turner Kilzer

Rev. Dr. John Turner Kilzer

John Kilzer Obituary

Published by Canale Funeral Directors - Memphis on Mar. 14, 2019.
Rev. Dr. Kilzer was born on January 7, 1957 and passed away on Tuesday, March 12, 2019. Rev. Dr. Kilzer was a resident of Tennessee at the time of passing.

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April 3, 2019

Lynn Sherrick posted to the memorial.

March 24, 2019

Doey Barrar posted to the memorial.

March 23, 2019

Rod C posted to the memorial.

Lynn Sherrick

April 3, 2019

I knew John in college and sensed something eternal in him long before he left the basketball court. I was not surpised by his lifetime of love and healing and have been heartened by his legacy of love. Godspeed, John. My deepest sympathies to your family.

Doey Barrar

March 24, 2019

I was so sorry to hear of John's death. He was such an inspiration to the Memphis community--even back in the day when he played basketball for Memphis State. I'm sorry he was still struggling when he helped so many people in his lifetime. He'll definitely be remembered for years to come! Was looking forward to hearing him at Calvary Episcopal Church as a speaker.

Rod C

March 23, 2019

Truly a gentleman and a scholar. He reaped a huge harvest. I am grateful for the the music and message he left behind.

From 1991

KRISTY FOX

March 21, 2019

My heart is overcast,
my soul is raining.

Debbie York

March 19, 2019

Stacy, my heart breaks for you. May God comfort you with His love and peace. John was so talented and was such a comfort to, me and to Friendship. Love you, Deb

Debbie York

March 19, 2019

Stacy, my heart breaks for you. May God comfort you with His love and peace.

Denise Meacham

March 19, 2019

John I went to your funeral yesterday. I love you.❤

Tal McCallum

March 18, 2019

John Kilzer was my Elvis.... I appreciate your genius, but mostly I appreciate your love for God and your love for people. Truly, a Memphis treasure and legend.

Steve Ramsey

March 18, 2019

So sorry to hear,

Jimmy Vachon

March 18, 2019

I made a point of taking my kids to see John perform many years ago. Wanted them to experience the "real deal" of Memphis' songwriters. He never failed to come over to meet each one with kind words for them and myself also. My utmost respect for John and his music. He will be missed, but he's home now and he's loved through the pain.

Blythe Selby

March 18, 2019

Godspeed Brother

Randy Frost

March 18, 2019

God speed, John! You are a legend and this community will truly miss you

Al Funderburk

March 18, 2019

John was humble and kind, a great soul. Our Memphis Music Family will miss his presence greatly. A tragic loss and reminder to watch, care, pay attention to, and help those around us everyday.

Mark Fisher

March 17, 2019

I saw John perform many times and I listen to his music regularly...I pray for peace for his family and for his soul.

Jeff Rust

March 17, 2019

John was such a tremendous personality in such a gentle way. He never seemed demanding, but could command attention and order simply with talent, intellect and compassion. I doubt I will ever meet another person like him and will always cherish the time I had working with him.

Dave Dickey

March 17, 2019

Safe travels and peace on your journey. Your wisdom, philosophy, music has made a profound difference in my life. Thoughts and prayers to Stacy, your family and friends.

Alison Fox

March 17, 2019

Your music truly touched my soul. Your journey touched me even more. You helped so many people in recovery and on their journey to a better life. I hope you are living your best life now. Praying for your loved ones. RIP

Leo Lambert

March 17, 2019

I remember seeing John play basketball at JCM high school in Jackson when they'd play my school Bolivar Central. Later he came to our church and sang one Sunday. I spoke to him about the high school games and he smiled and spoke fondly of one Bolivar player he knew. It's said to see a loving, caring soul pass. Rest in peace. Your journey has just begun.

Emma Martin

March 17, 2019

John, I shall always remember your beautiful caring heart, spirit and personality.
Emma

John VanWagoner

March 17, 2019

Your music will forever be etched into my soul. You have been a great friend and musical influence. I will never forget the times we shared playing music and enjoying conversation. My heart is overcast, my soul is raining. Blessings

Willy Bearden

March 17, 2019

You always had a kind word and a smile for everyone. Your memory will live on through the kindness you shared with the world.

Sam Shoup

March 17, 2019

John did so much for so many people. He was a great friend to me and I will always miss him.

Lewis Lamar

March 17, 2019

Thank you John for your gentle compassion for all.

Anne Fox and Ryan Peel

March 16, 2019

Prayers and condolences for Stacy and the rest of his family. Our thoughts are with you in this difficult time. May he rest in peace with love and sympathy from the family of his old friend Harry Peel.

Sharon Ammons

March 16, 2019

I feel truly blessed to have met John. He was an amazing person. Not only was he incredibly talented, we was just a great human being who always had a smile for everyone he met. The world is a sadder place without him.

Cheri Hectorne

March 16, 2019

Thanks for the music!!!! Prayers for the family!!!! Rock on John, Rock on!!!!!

Stephen C. and Shapard

March 16, 2019

Sorry to hear about John's death. He was a remarkable man and loved by so many.

Lisa Matlock

March 16, 2019

We used to see John all the time walking his dogs. He always hollered or stopped and talked. Ill remember John as just a real sweet fellow

Keith and Mary Kilpatrick

March 16, 2019

We are so sorry to hear that he passed away. We are praying for his family. We played his song I love you at our wedding in 1995. We met him in a small tavern in Little Rock and he sang that song to us. We had seen him a few times when he came through Little Rock. We are deeply saddened by this. Prayers for peace and comfort.

Mary Ellen Barksdale

March 16, 2019

Godspeed, Rev. Kilzer

S Hubbard

March 16, 2019

Such an amazing soul...Rest In Peace my friend...you will be missed by many...until we meet again...

Scott Turner

March 16, 2019

A truly sweet and talented man. His faith was his shield in life.

JEANIE MCQUINN

March 16, 2019

My heart is broken...my late husband, Skip McQuinn, loved John so much. We attended several of John's "The Way" services and loved to hear him perform. I last saw John when he sang a demo for us on a song I wrote called, "A Father's Heart". I am trying to find it and will send it to Ward. John presided over Skip's funeral and the marriage of my step-daughter, Meredith McQuinn Houston. I am so comforted to have John's new album and hear his voice. He was such a poet; had such a gift for speaking truth in love. God bless his family and friends. Jeanie McQuinn

charlotte ellis

March 16, 2019

Tiger Nation Mourns....and...Doves Cry...
Rest in Peace, John

charlotte ellis

March 16, 2019

Tiger Nation mourns....and...Doves Cry....
rest in peace, JOHN>

Kurt Denny

March 16, 2019

Kilzer was a hero and a friend! A truly great man!

Chad Baker

March 16, 2019

A unique artist and the soul of Memphis blues. John Kilzer will be missed.

Jimbo Bradley

March 16, 2019

Thanks, John, for,all you left us. RIP.

Jimmy Love

March 16, 2019

Your many talents and gifts brightened so many lives. RIP, John.

Deby Jolley

March 15, 2019

John will be greatly missed. He touched so many hearts and lives.
Words are hard to come by.
Thinking of all of John's friends and family - and keeping all of them (us) in my prayers.

Cindy Locke

March 15, 2019

John, you blew into our lives and we loved you instantly. Your trip to Texas ... always a cherished memory. Thank you for being so authentic, so compassionate, so accessible, so insightful, so deeply loving. Rest In peace, dear friend, because your presence was a gift. Love, Cindy and Tom

March 15, 2019

He touched so many lives in so many ways! He was one of the most amazing musicians never had the pleasure of knowing! Heaven must have went amazing band right now

David Raper

March 15, 2019

Godspeed John. You will never be forgotten. Your music and love will live on forever.

Patti Romano

March 15, 2019

A Memphis Original who was loved by many and will be missed by many. His music will live forever!

March 15, 2019

You will be missed. I have loved your music for 30 years and you were a great person. Rest in peace my friend.
Linda Connolly

Gina Moore

March 15, 2019

John Kilzer has been an inspiration to me, and countless others for as long as I can remember. His music as well as his kind hearted deeds will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May his music keep inspiring generations to come. God Bless You sweet man. Our tremendous loss is heavens gain. Rest In Peace John.

Joe McDaniel

March 15, 2019

RIP- thanks John for the music, thank you.

Ginny Downing

March 15, 2019

Im so saddened to hear about John. Memphis has lost a huge talent and wonderful person, who has helped so many. He has gifted us with amazing lyrics.....my heart is raining comes to mind now. Prayers for the family.

Erick Williams

March 15, 2019

We will truly miss you! Rest easy neighbor & friend. Deepest Condolences to the family.

Becky Stewart

March 15, 2019

John! You were such an inspiration to so many and a great friend!

Cynthia Walker

March 15, 2019

As a college friend of John's , I witnessed his remarkable journey over the years and know his kind spirit will leave an empty space in the expansive universe

Love & light to all affected by his exit. ☮

Nita Black

March 15, 2019

To John's family, our prayers are with you during this time of grief. I can't imagine how you are feeling at this moment. Know that John blessed alot of people through message and music. He is missed greatly. Blessings...Nita B

David Walker

March 15, 2019

A hero and mentor to myself. You made me get over stage fright and will always be my heart. Love you, my friend.

Nancy Morris

March 15, 2019

Deepest sympathy for this sad loss. I was John's 9th grade English Literature teacher in Jackson and recently had a visit with him at Trezevant Manor. I was so proud of him and his amazing service to so many. He will be greatly missed. Nancy Morris, 177 N. Highland St. Apt 916, Memphis 38111.

Tommy Cathey

March 15, 2019

My sincere condolences to the family and friends of John. R.I.P.

Genr Scott

March 15, 2019

God bless you John, rest well and my deepest condolences go out to you, your family and friends.

Rusty Mathis

March 15, 2019

We will miss you dearly but you will always be in our hearts. Much thanks and love for all of the wonderful memories.

Patty Pierce

March 15, 2019

Peace Be With You, John. Your music, your talent and your kind, sweet heart will be forever remembered and appreciated. Sending love, strength and peace to all who knew and loved you!

L McDermott

March 15, 2019

John was a bright light in this city of Memphis. He loved this city & all it's people.. All those he touched through his music, his preachings, his teachings, his heart, etc....loved him back as well.

There are no words to express just how much you gave to so many... & of what you had accomplished in your years of hard knocks and hard, hard work....I doubt that you really knew what a bright light you were and in such varied ways! You have left huge shoes to fill, John....huge!
Sing your heart out in Heaven, (my CDs will probably give out from play if not already).
May our memories of you continue to help us here!

Jessie Burns

March 15, 2019

Rest in peace. Your music, love for others and ministry will go one but we will still miss you.

Angela Manley

March 15, 2019

Peace be with you on your journey. Much love to your family.

Donna Russell

March 15, 2019

Thank you for years of wonderful music and songwriting. Your music touched the hearts of many. May God bless your efforts to help others in recovery. Rest in peace, John, your journey is over.

Phyllis Mullins

March 15, 2019

John Kilzer saved many souls and brought many addicts out of the depths of despair. RIP

Cara Benson

March 15, 2019

What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.

Dave Dickey

March 15, 2019

Thank you for the music, memories, wisdom and sharing your beliefs. Thoughts and prayers for your family. You were a blessing to me in many ways. Godspeed.

Skip and Christine Hartley

March 15, 2019

We had the privilege of flying in from Houston and attending his service. We became friends and talked occasionally. You will be missed by many

Kathryn Bray

March 15, 2019

John you were always an inspiration and a lot of fun, I hope you are flying high with your beautiful wings and making magical music in Heaven. Love you...

Mary Barksdale

March 14, 2019

Thank you for your warrior service Godspeed

William Kenley

March 14, 2019

Praying that God provides you rest and peace. You presence will live on through the many many souls you touched.

Isaac Kyle

March 14, 2019

I had three classes under Dr Kikzer at MTS and thought he was a good man. Praying for family

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Sign John Kilzer's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

April 3, 2019

Lynn Sherrick posted to the memorial.

March 24, 2019

Doey Barrar posted to the memorial.

March 23, 2019

Rod C posted to the memorial.