CW4 (Ret) John Willie Gaines

John Willie Gaines, age 83, of Cedar Hill, was called to his spiritual home on Sunday, September 20, 2020. His memory is cherished by his wife Cynthia BeAird Gaines, two daughters, Dr. Lillian BeAird Gaines, Christian Powers (Tyrone Powers); seven grandchildren, Myron Sailors, Kalliauna Powers, Michael Powers, Tyrone Powers Jr., Lilliauna Powers, Aliya Powers and Woodrow John Powers; devoted sisters and brothers, Ms. Willier Turner, Ms. Margret Baker, Royal Gaines Sr., William Gaines and Michael Gaines and a host of nieces, grand nieces, nephews, grand nephews, cousins and friends. He is preceded in death by his sister, Birtha. 

John professed Christ at an early age off the mourner’s bench at Mount Pleasant Church in Port Gibson, Mississippi. He attended The University of Southern California, Strayer University and The University of Texas. He had a degree in Aviatics, Computer Science and Technology. John served over 35 years of Federal Service. He served in many positions, Combat Surveillance, Fixed wing and Helicopter pilot, Computer Programmer, Software Developer and Analyst, Blanchfield Hospital Medical Programmer, Central Texas College Computer Science Professor, Department of The Army Computer Assignment Branch. He  was also awarded numerous awards, Air Assault badge, Air Medal (21 OLC), Army Aviator, Army Commendation Award, Bronze Star, Good Conduct Medal (2nd Award ), National Defense Service medal, Republic of Vietnam, Gallantry Cross w/ Palm, Republic of Vietnam w/60 Device, Senior Army Aviator and Vietnam Service.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held, Friday, September 25, 2020 at 11:00 AM at the Chapel of Neal-Tarpley-Parchman Funeral Home with Dr. Alvin Miller officiating. Interment will be at the Middle TN Veterans Cemetery in Pegram, TN, Wednesday, September 30, 2020 at 12:30 PM.

Our loved ones passing has setting us deeply, and sorrow nested near our family’s heart, but you gave us all so much comfort, when we felt our lives had come completely apart. These past few days have not been easy, how we’d make it through them, we did not know; but Jesus Christ did, and your kindness and prayers sustained us. God bless you as you reap the goodness you sow.  BeAird-Gaines-Cury

Arrangements are entrusted to Neal-Tarpley-Parchman Funeral Home, 1510 Madison Street, Clarksville, TN 37040; (931) 645-6488.  Online condolences may be made at www.nealtarpleyparchman.com.

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