John Russell Glass

John Russell Glass

July 1, 1950 - May 20, 2024

John Russell Glass, 73, of Nashville, TN, passed away peacefully on May 20th, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, who will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

John was born in Jefferson City, TN, on July 1, 1950, to the late Harold William Glass, Sr, and Martha French Vineyard Glass. He graduated from Carson Newman College in 1972 and joined the Air Force. He served his country with honor and dedication before pursuing a career in nursing at the Nashville VA Hospital. He worked there for over 20 years, caring for veterans with compassion and professionalism.

John was a man of faith and service, who was an active member of Belle Meade United Methodist Church. He was also involved in various community organizations, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Al Anon, HYSA, and Grassland Middle School football. He was sober for almost 30 years and was a source of inspiration and support for many people in recovery. He also volunteered for medical missions in Peru and Nicaragua, where he helped provide healthcare to underserved populations.

John was a passionate traveler, who visited every continent except Antarctica. He loved cruising, hiking, and exploring new places and cultures. He was always ready for an adventure and enjoyed sharing his experiences with his family and friends.

John is survived by his son, Gabe Glass, and his wife, Josefina, of Greenlawn, NY; his grandchildren, Cecilia and Julian Glass; his sisters, Rebecca Skeen, of Morristown, TN, and Gaye Noe, of Dandridge, TN; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Martha Glass and brother, Harold William Glass, Jr.

A receiving of friends and a celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 25, 2024, starting at 12:30 p.m., at Harpeth Hills Memorial Gardens, located on 9090 Highway 100, Nashville, TN 37221. A memorial service will be held in Morristown at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tennessee State Parks (Radnor Lake), Alcoholics Anonymous.

The family would like to thank the staff of Heart’n Soul for their kindness and care for John during his illness. They would also like to thank all the friends and relatives who offered their prayers and support during this difficult time.

John leaves behind a legacy of generosity, kindness, and a fearless spirit that will be deeply missed by all who knew him.