Sorry to hear this news.  It's because of his 8th grade history class  that I love history so much. My Jr. High track coach. And my high school football coach.  Prairie Heights Panthers. Class of 1981. Thanks for the memories and lessons learned both in the classroom and on the track & football field. See you on the other side Coach King.

Darrell Ettleman '81

He was a great teacher even greater coach and a good friend who always had something to say whether you wanted to hear it or not. 
He touched my life and made me a better person for that I’ll never forget him. Thanks coach ❤️ Go BEARS!!!!


Dear Brandon and Brooke
I’m so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. I know how much he loved you both. Should you celebrate his life later on I hope I hear about it and can attend.
Sincerely
Jane Rubley Nastally


With  my last conversation with Mr. King in May 1971.  My high school teacher.  His words inspired me to go  to college and I kept his thoughts in mind, all the way through  Graduate School. Thank you Mr. King. Rest in peace,

Lonnie E. Shipe
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Brooke and Brandon,

I have so many memories: watching the pond get dug, summers spent roaming the woods and fields around our houses, playing Axis and Allies for days at a time, the picnic style dinner table, and Digger clearing a room with a little gas, just to name a few. Growing up, your house was my house too. Know that you are loved, missed, and prayed for, as you grieve. 

I am so sad to hear this. Mr. King was always a good guy and always made sure to take the time for his students. I pray his family finds comfort in the fact that he was truly a legend at the school and to everyone who knew him.

To Brandon and Brooke,

Your dad was influential in so many lives. He was kind hearted, hard, and funny all at the same time. He gave kids a chance who otherwise slipped through the cracks. John's teachings weren't in social studies, they were in life. He never held you to higher expectations than you were capable of but you never wanted to disappoint him. He was that kind of person. I am a college professor today with much due to John King. 

Rest in your memories and take solace in the great times you shared with him. He will always hold a special place in my heart. Godspeed Mr. King. 

--Andrew Criswell

Sad news ...... sorry for your loss. John was a freshman in high school when I was a senior and was a good friend. He kept improving his skills on the basketball court and was a starting guard with me by the end of the season .... a great athlete and a great guy! Jim Bayman, South Whitley.

To John’s Family,
We are very sorry for your loss and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers, now and in the days to come.
We have good memories working with John back in the “good ole days”, and the fun we had at football camps and after game get togethers.
May he rest in peace pain free.
With Deepest Sympathies,
Alan & Karen Middleton

I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. 


What a great picture!   This is how I remember him, often with a good natured smile.   He left such a positive impact on so many lives and that’s what it’s all about.   Thoughts & prayers for hearts to heal, esp Brandon & Brooke.  🙏 

I’ll never forget his kindness and support for basketball games. Thoughts and prayers for his family. 

As a teacher,coach and a neighbor he touched many lives, certainly mine. Certainly will be missed. The man who nicknamed me Booter. Lots of fond memories. 

This man is a Legend in his own right. RIP 🙏🙏🙏 
One of the greatest !!! 

OBITUARY

John Dean King

December 9, 1945 – July 26, 2024

Beams Funeral Home

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A Celebration of Life will be held at a later time