Rev. John Paul Schulz

He was born on December 12, 1932 to the Rev. Claire and Amelia Schulz in Johnson City, TN. God laid his name and claim on him in the sacrament of holy baptism on Sunday February 12, 1933. Due to the sudden death of his father, a stroke, in February 1939, he, his mother and unborn brother moved to Birmingham, Alabama where he became a faithful member of Zion Lutheran Church and a student at its Christian day school. On July 28,1946 he was confirmed (in the Christian faith of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod) by Pastor Hans Reuter. Eleven years later to the day, July 28,1957, after graduating from Concordia Seminary St. Louis on June 4, 1957, he was ordained into the pastoral ministry of the Lutheran Church, also by Pastor Reuter.

His first call as Pastor was to St. Mark Lutheran Church, Lake Jackson, TX where he served for 9 years. On November 27,1965 he was joined in the bond of holy wedlock with Gloria Krentz, daughter of the Rev. Elmer and Lorraine Krentz, Wellsville, NY.

On July 3,1966 he was installed in his second congregation, Our Savior Lutheran Church and School, Houston, TX. During his fourteen and a half tenure he also served as pastoral advisor for the Houston Area Lutheran Laymans League, leader of the Lutheran Pastors Radio Ministry, and on public relations and constitution committees of TX district, LCMS.

On January 4, 1981 he was installed as Pastor of First Lutheran Church and School, Knoxville, TN. Also during that ministry he served on the board of Tennessee Right to Life for many years. After serving First Lutheran for 17 years and 40 years in active pastoral ministry, he retired for alternate services preaching where invited. During his retirement he preached some 25 times per year and led Bible classes from time to time.

Preceded in death by his father, Claire Schulz and mother Amelia. Surviving to cherish his memory are his wife, Gloria, the love of his life, son, John Jr., daughter, Beth Buckner (Greg), and grandchildren, Luke and Rachel Buckner. Also, his brother David (Ann) Schulz, many sisters in laws, brothers in laws, nieces, and nephews.

The family would like to thank the medical staff at Parkwest Hospital and Knoxville Rehabilitation Center. We also would like to thank his many fellow Lutheran Pastors from the Knoxville area for their visits and prayers. Memorials can be made to First Lutheran Church and School or Tennessee Right to Life.

Receiving of family and friends will be held on Sunday, March 16, 2025 from 4-7pm at First Lutheran Church. A funeral service will be held on Monday, March 17, 2025 at First Lutheran Church at 12 noon with a graveside service to follow at Greenwood Cemetery at 3pm.