He was born on December 23, 1938 in Osceola, AR, the son of the late John E. and Jessie R. (Gillian) Chism.
John served in the U.S. Air Force from 1955 to 1963. He was a self-employed musician and also worked as a cabdriver for many years. He played guitar at the Grand Old Opry. He played guitar, bass, piano and drums.
He is survived by his son John R. Chism, Jr., siblings Ernesteen Marsh, Barbara Falcinelli, Elwanda Stollermire, Hedi Lamar Tripplett, and Edgar L. Chism, his companion Brenda Naschinski, and several nieces nad nephews.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter Teresa Chism and a sister Geraldine Beal.
Services were under the direction of Bisch and Son Funeral Home, 505 E. Allen, Springfield. A graveside service was held on Monday, Nov. 3, 2014 at 2 pm at Camp Butler National Cemetery, Springfield.
Please visit the online obituary at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.