John Philip Saal

John Philip Saal (72), passed away at his residence, Sunday, November 2, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. He fought with unwavering strength and grace. John Philip was born June 18, 1953, in Nashville, Tennessee. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Pamela Dean Saal; son, Jeremy and Sofia Saal, Ted; and two siblings, Mary Kay Buckner Saal, and Ted Saal. John Philip is predeceased by his parents, Madeleine and Henry Saal; sister, Joanne S. Lewis, and brother Fritz Saal. He attended schools, St. Josephs, Father Ryan, Litton, and Volunteer State Community College. He started working in 1972 with TDOT. His jobs included, 1. Soil Lab (Roads), 2. Asphalt Lab, 3. Supervisor-Physical Lab, Concrete, Cylinder, Steel and Bridges. He retired in 2015.

He was known for his strong work ethic and commitment to community and others. He was a member at Christ the King Church. He lived a life marked by devotion to family. Some of his greatest joys came from memories he shared with his wife Pamela and their son Jeremy, (holiday get togethers, traveling, working in the yard, and walking the neighborhood.) He spent years being a member of the Green Hills YMCA and was a believer in keeping in shape but also enjoyed the friendships he made there.

John Philip was the proud and loving father of Jeremy Saal. He regarded Jeremy as his greatest accomplishment. He and Jeremy shared a love of family, local and world conversations, and shared a love of all sports specifically the Tennessee Volunteers. John Philip loved Sofia for many reasons, and she held a special place in his heart. He was so appreciative of Sofia and Ted for all they did for him during his cancer journey. He so enjoyed all the family and travel times they shared. He also leaves family members and friends who will sadly miss him. His family sister, Mary Kay, brother Ted, and niece Stephanie showed family support in many ways. Pamela’s sister, Susan Phillips and her family, showed deep love and kindness throughout his illness. Sincere appreciation to Pastor Steven Meriwether for continued care and devotion. We appreciate Bill Garner, longtime friend, for his love and support.

The Saal family extends special thanks to Dr. Deepak Bhamidipati, nurses and staff (SCRI Oncology Partners), St. Thomas West Hospital, Select Hospital, Woodcrest at Blakeford, and Gentiva Hospice. We express gratitude to all medical personnel. There are no words that can express how grateful and blessed to have been in their care. In memory of John Philip Saal, please consider donating to GASTRIC CANCER FOUNDATION (Commit to a Cure) in place of flowers. Your support matters. We find comfort in knowing that John Philip Saals legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will always cherish forever. We will always carry his memory in our hearts.

A private graveside service will be held at Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens at 10:00am on Friday November 7, 2025.