John W. Gilchrist

John W. Gilchrist, on Friday, July 23, 2010 John peacefully went home to his Savior. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 66 years, Tarquine M. Gilchrist. He is survived by his loving children, daughter Mariann and fiancée Robert McLaughlin, and his son John IV; grandson William of Wisconsin and 2 great grandchildren. He is also survived by sister and brother-in-law Catherine and Harold Butzer of Jefferson City, Missouri and numerous nieces. John was born on January 17, 1919 in Davenport, Iowa and was also preceded in death by his parents Hugh M. and Elizabeth Q. Gilchrist. He and his wife Tarquine were a founding family of St. Rita Catholic Community when it was the little wooden “church in the Weeds” of the K-Mart parking lot. John was the first church organist at St. Rita’s and shared the choir loft with the buzzing hornets. John spent the first half of his business career as a Regional Sales Representative for General Electric for 20 years. He then spent the second half as a licensed Financial Planner in Texas. John made a friend of all who crossed his path, and was known for his character, integrity, generosity, and endless smile. He was a gift to all who met him and will be painfully missed. We are endlessly grateful to God for his place in our lives. The family wishes to express deep love and thanks to the entire staff at Walnut Place Assisted Living for their loving care and tenderness. A Rosary will be prayed on Monday, July 26, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. at Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home. The Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at 11:00 a.m.at St. Rita Catholic Church, 12521 Inwood Road in Dallas, with entombment services to follow at Calvary Hill Cemetery.