John Edward Jillson, III, born July 31, 1959, from Merrillvill, IN, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family and friends on Thursday, November 17, 2022.

He is preceded in death by his dad, John Edward Jillson, Jr and mom, Alice Marie Jillson (nee Casselman), and sister Joni Jane Jillson Otterman.

He is survived by his son, John Edward Jillson, IV; grandchildren, Jaiden Elizabeth, John Edward Jillson, V, Jake Ryan and Brooke Lauren. Siblings, Janice, Jackie, Jim and Jody. Special cousin Diane Vassar; many nieces, nephews, cousins, his aunts; Marlene Keilman, Betty Lewis, Betty Jillson, Donna Jillson and May Jillson; uncle, Walt.

Best Friends, Kevin Konrady (Big Mel), Marc and Laura Trubiano and Ronnie Kaufman.

John retired from the Hillsborough County Water Department in Tampa, FL. He moved to Gatlinburg and Johnson City, TN to enjoy the mountains.

John was a member of The First United Methodist Church in Gatlinburg, TN.

John loved Gatlinburg, calling this beautiful mountainous place “his home”, he loved hiking the mountains, fishing, an avid pool player, playing poker games and his special game, 10,000 dice game.

John loved life!! He never met a stranger he couldn’t talk to. He was very generous and had this magnetism for friends.

John was very loved and will be sadly and deeply missed!!

The family would like to express their gratefulness to Kindred Hospice, especially to Tonja Schenelle who was by his side along with his sisters (Jackie and Jody) and great-niece, Shaianne, throughout his journey; and to ETSU (East Tennessee State University) Quillen College of Medicine.

Please make any donations to the American Cancer Society.