John R. Churchman

Rev. John R. Churchman, (Medad), left his earthly home on Wednesday, August 24, 2011 to live eternally with the God he so faithfully served. He demonstrated to us the true meaning of unconditional love through his Christ-like caring for all and his unwavering devotion to his family. He was a graduate of Carson-Newman College and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He had an illustrious sixty year ministry and led hundreds to come to know the Jesus he loved. He was pastor of Ball Camp Baptist Church in Knoxville, Manley Baptist Church in Morristown, Beaver Dam Baptist Church in Knoxville and retired as Director of Missions for the Blount County Chilhowee Baptist Association. He also held many leadership positions in the Tennessee Baptist Convention and various committees locally. He maintained his delightful sense of humor throughout his illness and we will miss his ability to say the perfect thing at the right time. He was a dedicated and caring husband, father, and grandfather and will be missed profoundly by his family and friends. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 58 years, Edith Mayes Churchman, daughters & sons-in-law, Jane & Mark Lund, Carol & Mike Haynes and Leigh & Bobby Ridenour; grandchildren, Allison & Andrew Lund, Meredith & Michael Haynes, Jonathan, Jordan, Justin and Jamison Ridenour all of Maryville/Alcoa. Also survived by his aunt, Bonnie Proffitt of New Market and several cousins. The family will receive friends from 3pm until 6pm Sunday, August 28, 2011 at Madison Avenue Baptist Church with a celebration of life service immediately following. The service is to be officiated by Rev. Glenn Grubb and Dr. Glenn Cummings. Pallbearers are Rev. Churchman’s six grandsons. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Madison Avenue Baptist Church Building Fund, 1918 Madison Ave., Maryville, TN 37804 or the Muscular Dystrophy Association, PO Box 78960, Phoenix, AZ 85062-8960. The private family burial will be held on Monday, August 29, 2011 with Dr. Steve Hodges officiating. A special thanks to UT Home Health and his dedicated caregivers, Billie, Flo, Katie and Tracy. Arrangements handled by Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of John R. Churchman please visit our Sympathy Store.