John H. Word

John, affectionately known as “Word”, was born to the late William David Word and Mollie Lee Stone. He attended public schools in Fayetteville, TN. He accepted employment with Knoxville Utilities Board, which relocated him to Knoxville, TN, where he met his late wife, Fredda Lee Slay Word. Together they raised their family in the Lonsdale Community.

Word loved to fish, hunt, cook and help his fellow man if he could be of service. One of his culinary specialties was the “Word burger”. A pig burger that was filled with all of the love and joy he had for cooking, and you could taste the love in every bite.

Word was a devoted member of Open Door Church where he served faithfully as a Deacon. His service to the ministry was out of an abundance of devotion and love for the Lord and his friend, Pastor Steve Simpson.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Evangelist Fredda Lee Word; son, John Word Jr. “John John” and grandson, Daniel Singleton.

He leaves to mourn his passing: daughter Mona Word; sons, Aundre Singleton (Loretta) and Juan Singleton (Lona); grandchildren, Chantel, Keith, Johnea; Jazmyn, AJ, Lyon, Tajuana and Jemima; great grandchildren, Ira III, Isaiah, Ireanna, Deondre, Chanel and Jeremiah; brother, Bobbie Word; sister, Mary Stone; very devoted friends, Larry Jean Coats and Pastor Steve Simpson.

Special thanks to West Hills Health and Rehabilitation Long Term Care for their unending kindness and support.

Saturday, September 11, 2021, a public walkthrough is scheduled from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Open Door Church, 2806 Sherman Street, Knoxville TN.  Social distancing and face coverings are required.  A funeral service to follow for immediate family and close friends with Pastor Steve A. Simpson, Sr. as the eulogist.  Interment at New Gray Cemetery, where a white dove release will conclude the service.  Flowers may be delivered to the church the day of the service.  Professional arrangements entrusted to Patton Funeral Home, Brian L. Buckmon, LFD 1-800-824-8283 or www.pattonfuneralhome1962.com. 

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