John C. Shilliday, age 77, died peacefully at his residence in Jackson, TN, on Thursday, November 7, 2024, with his loving family by his side. Born on October 2, 1947, in Barksdale Field, LA, the son of the late Jack and Evelyn Kilby Shilliday. John exemplified a life marked by dedication, passion, and service.
John proudly served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Constellation from 1967 through 1970. His commitment to service continued as he then transitioned to a distinguished career as a firefighter with the Jackson Fire Department, where he served for twenty years. His bravery and dedication to his community left an indelible mark on those he served alongside and protected.
Beyond his professional achievements, John was an avid NASCAR fan who had a profound appreciation for muscle cars, finding great solace under the hood as he worked on them. His love for the Baltimore Orioles showcased his passion for sports, while his involvement with the Parkway Christian Car Club allowed him to share his enthusiasm for cars with fellow enthusiasts.
John is survived by his beloved wife of thirty-nine years, Patsy Cox Shilliday; his son, John Michael Shilliday of Jackson, TN; his sisters, Valerie Isaacs of Hernando, MS, Michelle Huff and her husband Doug of Queen Creek, AZ, Kim Holland and her husband Duane of Horn Lake, MS, and Tammy Woodard and her husband Jeff of Kennesaw, GA; and his cherished granddaughters, Meadow Loy and husband Triston of Milan, TN, Adley Johnson of Shiloh, TN. and Hunter Harris of Henderson, TN Additionally, he is survived by Patsy’s children, Tammy Harris of Jackson, TN, Steve Harris and his wife Crystal of Henderson, TN, and Barbie McCuan and her husband Joey of Jackson, TN and John’s daughter-in-law, Jessica Johnson and husband Blake of Shiloh, TN John also had a life-long friend in Scott Christopherson, who shared in many of his cherished moments.
John was preceded in death by his father, Jack Shilliday; his mother, Evelyn Kilby; his grandfather, C.G. Anderson; his sister, Bobbi Shilliday; and his daughter, Stephanie Shilliday. Each of these individuals played a significant role in his life, and their memories continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
The visitation will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024, beginning at 4:00 p.m. and continuing until 7:00 p.m. at Arrington Funeral Directors.
A funeral service to honor John’s life will be held on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel of Arrington Funeral Directors with Rev. Bobby Keen officiating. Burial will follow in Ridgecrest Cemetery with military honors.
The Pallbearers will be Ricky Butler, Steve Harris, Jesse Isaacs, Chase McCuan, Hayden McCuan and Barrakus Sharp.
Honorary pallbearers will be Emmitt Smith. Larry Singleton and Scott Christopherson
John C. Shilliday leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and friendship that will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him. His spirit and enthusiasm for life will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.
Arrington funeral Directors, 148 W. University Parkway, Jackson, TN 38305 731.668.1111
