John Clifford Zenter, Sr., 92, of Bossier City, passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2020. He was born in Plain Dealing on January 12, 1928, graduating from Plain Dealing High School. His college education was interrupted by service in the U. S. Army from 1946-1947. Upon return, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern State University and a master’s degree in music education from LSU.
He found and married the love of his life, Evelyn Crawford Zenter on July 1, 1977. Together they built a life around their mutual love of God and music, singing in church choirs, local theater productions, and social gatherings. Their home was filled with laughter, music and a good time.
John’s lifetime vocation and passion was music. He taught in numerous schools around Louisiana, spending most of his career at Linwood Junior High, teaching instrumental and vocal music, marching band and orchestra. He served God as a minister of music in numerous churches, such as Waller Baptist, Airline Baptist, Broadmoor Christian, Plain Dealing Baptist, and Summer Grove Methodist. In retirement, John owned and operated Zenter Piano Service and was a member of the local piano technician’s guild. He also enjoyed singing with the Shreveport Chamber Singers.
He is survived by his wife, Evelyn Crawford Zenter, 91, of Bossier City. Children: John Clifford Zenter, Jr. of Longview, Texas; David Zenter (Carolyn) of Shreveport; Richard Zenter (Warren) of Las Vegas, Nevada; Becky Roberts (Stan) of Shreveport; Trelvis Dunford (Barry) of Bossier City; Stepchildren, Kim Fayard (Rob) of Clearwater, Florida and John Chandler (Christy) of Branson, Missouri. One sister, Alice Zenter West of Center, Texas; 16 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.
Pallbearers: Lee Dunford, Will Dunford, Alex Roberts, Jarred Roberts, Jason Roberts, Wesley Roberts, Eric Zenter, Stephen Zenter and Thomas Zenter. Honorary pallbearers: Adam Fayard, Luke Fayard, Rob Fayard, Jr., and Gil Chandler.
Celebration of life services include a visitation Friday, June 5 from 5-7 PM and funeral Saturday, June 6 at 10 AM at Hill Crest Funeral Home in Haughton, with Brother Calvin Hubbard officiating and Aaron Wilson providing music. Internment to follow at Plain Dealing Cemetery.
To honor John Zenter’s legacy, please make donations to the James Burton Foundation (http://www.jamesburtonfoundation.org/) or the Alzheimer’s Association (https://www.alz.org/).
