John R. Mosley

We are here to celebrate John’s May 16, 2011 departure from his earthly home to his heavenly one, where he will begin the longest dance marathon of his life! John was born January 17, 1929 in Paris Texas to John and Willie Iva Mosley, both of whom passed away during his teen years. He attended Paris High School where as a cheerleader it was evident even then that his debonair, charismatic personality would last a lifetime. He soon met his future wife Carolyn Cannon, and they both attended Kilgore Jr. College where Carolyn was a Kilgore Rangerette and he continued to cheer. They married in 1950 and settled in Houston. John finished at University of Houston where he cheered and was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. Once he graduated, he began a long career in the Insurance industry, working for Republic Insurance Company, American General, Couch Insurance, and again for Republic Insurance Company until he retired. During his career, he also worked along side Carolyn with Jolyns—their design firm and antique business. Post-retirement he pursued this passion full time and remained active in the business until his illness forced him to close his beloved Heights shop. Referred to as “The Height’s Monkey Man,” because of his penchant for monkeys, he will continue to be highly revered for his knowledge in antiques and his decorating abilities.

John’s fun-loving spirit, his heart-warming love towards his family and friends, and his devotion to God were the cornerstones of his life. He served as a long-time Deacon at Second Baptist Church where he faithfully ushered in the same first floor section for many years. He was a devoted member of the Gospel Truth Bible Study class for over twenty years and was active in many church activities, particularly enjoying service activities and the construction of the candy houses at Christmas. Family was his priority and both his family and extended family adored him. Holidays were a joy, filled with tradition and open to anyone who needed a second home. John loved to travel and in particular adored cruises. There were always new adventures and experiences to cherish, from a simple gathering of friends and their families at the beach or ranch, an action packed family trip to Mexico or Italy, or one of his many cruises with his beloved family members. He was a fabulous dresser, but was as comfortable in a tuxedo as he was in shorts working in his garage or yard. John treasured his home, his neighbors and his neighborhood. He was a wonderful cook who enjoyed entertaining—with presentation being incredibly important. He could prepare anything, as easily for two as two hundred; and his spaghetti dinners, Mosley Burgers and Fudge Pie were infamous!

John was a lifetime friend to many and he greeted each of them with an open heart and his famous welcoming smile. He treasured his friends and they cherished him. Once a friend—you were a friend for a lifetime. He was involved in multiple different groups for many years (many in excess of 50), with some of his favorites being: Sip&Sup, Chicken-foot and Bridge groups, and his numerous dance groups including Lords and Ladies, and dancing with the gang at the Petroleum Club to the music of Marilyn and Gerry. He lived a full and wonderful life touching all who crossed his path with a mark that will last a lifetime.

Preceded in death by: his three sisters—Evabell House, Mary Stevens, and Dorothy Marie Pride; his wife of 42 years, Carolyn; and his second wife of seven years Ann Keeling whom he married in 1995.

Left to cherish his memory are: his two daughters—Cynthia Love Hendrickson and husband Bob and Candace Mosley Stephens; three grand children—Heather K. Casada and husband Garrett, Morgan E. Settegast and Austin Hunter Stephens; great-grandson—Tristen Cash Casada; three nephews—William B. House and wife Nancy Ruth, Phillip K. House and wife Mary Ellen, and Jerry P. House and wife Willetta; three nieces—Nancy House, Sharon Atkins and husband Phil, and Shelley Frederick; and his loving companion of the past six years—Lasca Burns. Extended Family include: Heather, Ashley and Jason Hendrickson; Kay-Kay and Charlie White, Darren and Sheri Keeling, Tiffani Keeling Swank and their children: Boomer and Tug White; Kayla, Ashley, Emily and Elizabeth Keeling; and Bridgette Swank.