John Settlemyer

John Settlemyer of Knoxville passed away February 14, 2026. He was born in Knoxville on July 28, 1937. John was a graduate of Bearden High School and was a firefighter for 32 years, retiring as a captain. He was also a member of the Air Force Reserves. He was a deacon at Outreach Church and a 55-year mason Cherokee Lodge # 78 and was very proud. His pride came from all these organizations. It was Christian First and Family Second. His hobbies included fishing, hunting, gold panning, family parties, building things, playing music, writing stories, songs, and poems, drawing, wood carving friends and family, gardening, exploring the outdoors, birdwatching, cats, dogs, and short cuts.

Preceded in death by his wives, Marian Settlemyer, and Jane Settlemyer; sisters, Marjorie Wilkes, and Hazel Green; brother, Donald Settlemyer.

Survived by his wife, Alma Settlemyer; sons, John M. Settlemyer (Cindy), Jim Settlemyer (Emily), Josh Settlemyer (Gloria), Jason Settlemyer (Meggan), Mike Tillery (Kristi), Scott Tillery, and Tim Tillery (Renee); daughters, Loree Erskine (Tim), and Karen Medley.

Left to celebrate John are also twenty grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren, one great great grandchild, Lifelong friends, James and Melvin Pierce and special sister-in-law, Pat and Bob Ford.

Family and friends will gather at Highland West Cemetery on Sherrill Blvd. on Wednesday at 10:45 am for an 11 am graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, family request donations to Sacred Ground Hospice House.