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John Claypool Obituary

Family-Placed Death Notice

JOHN ROWAN CLAYPOOL, IV Well-known and much-beloved theologian, John Rowan Claypool IV, age 74, died of complications from treatment for multiple myeloma on Saturday, September 3, 2005 at The Dekalb Medical Center Decatur, Georgia. He was born in Franklin, Kentucky, and reared in Nashville, Tennessee, receiving his undergraduate degree in philosophy from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. His theological education continued at Southern Baptist Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky and at the Episcopal Theological Seminary of the Southwest, in Austin, Texas. Dr. Claypool earned a doctorate in theology and has received six honorary degrees, The Rev. Dr. Claypool was ordained to the ministry in 1953 and served as pastor of five Baptist churches in Kentucky, Tennessee, Texas, and Mississippi. Ordained an Episcopal priest in 1986, he served as Rector of St. Luke's Episcopal Chuurch in Birmingham, Alabama, for nearly fourteen years. He retired from full-time parish ministry in 2000 and had since served as Professor of Preaching at McAfee School of Theology, Mercer University in Atlanta, Georgia. During that period, he served part-time as theologian-in-residence at Trinity Episcopal Church in New Orleans, Louisiana, from 2001 to 2003 and has been an associate priest at All Saints Episcopal Church in Atlanta since 2003. John Claypool, a prolific writer, was the author of eleven books and a sought after speaker, who was nationally respected. The Very Rev. Harry Pritchett remembered, "He was always changing-growing, open to new possibilities. Life was a journey to John and it was my great privilege to be his friend during this part of the trip." Kirby Godsey, President of Mercer University, said, "John Claypool touched our souls." Amidst our wounds and our triumphs, his voice became for us the voice of God. He embraced the McAfee School of Theology, his students and his colleagues with a special measure of grace and with unfettered gentleness. John's presence in ouur lives and our histories is more than mere death can ever take away. He will continue to walk among us, giving light to our steps, wisdom for our hearts, and hope to our souls. John Claypool's life and presence and teaching were profound and enduring gifts to the entire Mercer University community. John Rowan Claypool is survived by his wife, Ann Wilkinson Scheyd Claypool; a son, John Rowan Claypool, V; one grandson, John Rowan Claypool, VI; and two step children, Laura Crawford Williams and Charles Tarleton Williams, III. Memorial gifts to honor the life of John Claypool may be sent to McAfee School of Theology, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341-4115; St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 3736 Montrose Road, Birmingham, AL 35213; or All Saints' Episcopal Church, 635 West Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA. 30308-1925. Visitation will be at St. Lukes Episcopal Church in Birmingham, AL on Thursday, September 8, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The funeral will be held at St. Lukes Episcopal Church at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 9.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Sep. 5, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for John Claypool

Sponsored by CHBC webministry.

174 Entries

Debra Walters

August 29, 2020

There is an immense gratitude for John's life having crossed paths with own as a seminarian student in his classes and in his mentoring care to me. All these years later, I still pattern and am deeply influenced in my own pastoral care and counseling ministry as Chaplain and Grief Counselor by John. In John, I found permission to find my own voice and firm place to be both resilient and hospitable in the the caring of broken souls. Thank you John for the profound influence you have offered me and I offer others. So grateful you mentored me at McAfee. Miss you as so many do. What an influential light of peace and hospitality you were to so many. Thank you.

Marianne Jones

June 18, 2016

I knew Dr. Claypool when he was minister of Broadway Baptist in Fort Worth. His sermons, books, and gifts he brought to us will remain forever. He is sorely missed by the millions who came to know him.
Marianne Jones 6/18/2016

Jennie Owens

February 15, 2014

When I realized that my copy of The Light Within You hadn't been returned, I sought out another copy. (I found one!) And I was led down memory lane, to how much John inspired my life and still does. I still miss him; I believe I always will.

Elizabeth

June 3, 2010

Ann and family,
I know that it has been years since John's death, but I miss him so very much tonight. He was my spiritual mentor during two very difficult times of life. As I revisit the painfull side of life, I would love to be encouraged and embraced by him again.

Scott Hopkins

April 1, 2007

Ann-
I am a preacher today because of John's tender care of my soul at Mars Hill College and then later at the College of Preachers in DC around 1988. His voice and the cadence of his phrasing still haunts me. I genunily loved him as a novice to a teacher. Thank you for sharing him with so many of us.

James O. Price

September 6, 2006

Ann and Rowan,

On October 1, 1971, John R. Claypool preached his first sermon at Broadway Baptist Church, Fort Worth, Texas, entitled "I have good news for you."

On that same date, I began a term as Chairman of the Board of Deacons and served with John during the ensuing two years. It was indeed "good news" that John served as our pastor for the next five years, bringing his deep knowledge of biblical values and insights to the members of our congregation. He touched so many lives in so many ways during his 74 years. We all miss his presence deeply.

On his birthday, December 15, we enjoyed an annual remembrance of his time here and looked forward to the next phone call.

John, my friend, I miss you! JIM

Reece Don and Gwen

August 31, 2006

On September 3, 1955, John Claypool performed our marriage ceremony at Wallaceton Baptist Church near Berea, Ky. While I was working on my undergraduate degree at Southern Seminary, John was on his doctorate. We both pastored churches in southeastern Ky near Richmond and Berea. Since I didn't have a car, John allowed me to ride with him each weekend. We became very close. When I was ordained, he preached the sermon. After our wedding, he led a revival in my church. Later, he left that church and I became its pastor.

When we returned from our first tour as missionaries in Nigeria, he and Lou Ann drove from Louisville to that church to meet us.

John's preaching and writing have made a big impact in our lives and we value the friendship we had.

Shane Gaster

October 21, 2005

It is late evening, October 21. Only this night have I learned of the passing of Dr. Claypoole. I grieve and rejoice at the same time. He is seeing now what he has shown so many for so long. I was introduced to his ministry in Feb 1991, and ever since have considered him a premier mentor and model, though I never had the opportunity to meet him in person. I regret this, but live with the certainty I'll see him one day. Christendom has lost a giant. I have stood on his shoulders and seen far. I think of the passage in John's gospel, "There was a man named John, who was sent from God." John Claypoole was such a man. Thank you Lord for your servant. May his family know your grace and strength in new ways during this time. Amen.

Chaplain, Major, Shane C. Gaster

United States Air Force

Charleston AFB, SC

Don Rohrer

October 3, 2005

I am proud to have known and been baptized by Dr. Claypool. By coincidence I was baptized on the same day he baptized his daughter Larue Lou. He treated me just as special as his own daughter.

Being so you I don’t’ know that I could grasp all of Dr. Claypool’s sermons but I still remember exactly how he closed each service at Crescent Hill “By the face of God fully revealed by Jesus, you are being redeemed”. From that foundation I continue to build my on spirituality and walk with Christ.

Rowan my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Linda Key

October 2, 2005

My first introduction to John Claypool was only six weeks ago when I read The Light Within Us. I was so moved by this book that I read it in full in one day and actually read parts of it aloud to a close friend. I did not know who John Claypool was and I researched his name in hopes that he was still alive and I was so glad that he was! What a shock to learn that he had passed early in September. I am going to reread this book and I shall continue to read his works. My deepest sympathies to the Claypool family. One of the people I want to meet in heaven is Rev. Claypool. His insights have been a blessing to me. Thank you for this opportunity to express honor and respect to his memory.

John Adams

October 2, 2005

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and all those blessed by John's life and ministry. His honesty and openness to God's love flowing through him to others - sharing grace and mercy - will always be a cherished memory! We were honored to be part of his church family back in Louisville days and have been touched by his writings and ministry through the years. SHALOM John and Beth Adams

Robert M. Shipley, Jr.

October 1, 2005

I am someone who was blessed to have Dr. John R. Claypool as a mentor during my adolescent years. I remember vividly the night he baptized me at Crescent Hill Baptist Church on May 12, 1963. Another beloved mentor and Youth Minister at Crescent Hill, Dwight Cobb, I believe eulogized Dr. Claypool the best during a homecoming reunion for Rowan's wedding in June, 1991:

Dwight asked, "Is it possible to worship God, when John Claypool comes home again? My memory races back to another time, other years listening to the cadence of his speech. He was mentor to us, who modeled in the paradigm of worship and the preaching of leadership week by week. Before we knew what was happening to us as a church, we had new words in our vocabulary. We found ourselves talking to each other about our faith pilgrimages. We also were told week after week that we were being Redeemed, and we wondered about that. And we began to understand it as a process and then we believed it. And we too began to experience life as a gift and have celebrated it ever since. We thronged to church in the 1960s. Remember the feelings? John Claypool, during his own spiritual pilgrimage, taught us how to be ministers, how to reach out to each other, some through theatre, some through coffee house ministry or cross-town ministries to the less fortunate. We were never the same. As a church we were never the same. John, know that we really have no question about being able to worship our God today. We gathered here for all those years because you taught us how to do that best. It is your legacy to those of us who know you and to those of us who have only heard of you. But, know that today our hearts are filled with the nostalgia of remembering that -how significant you were to us individually and how greatly you are admired, how greatly you are loved. It is a gift to be reunited with you in this room, and to celebrate that with great thankfulness. We welcome you home." Dwight passed-away in August, 1995.

Although I did not see Dr. Claypool after he left Louisville in 1971, my being was forever molded by his guidance, and I am so grateful to him. He taught me optimism in the face of despair, compassion in the face of oppression, forgiveness in the face of hatred. At his homecoming to Crescent Hill on June 16, 1991, he said that "Memory is forever the basis of hope and the way we were, and the grace that we found back in those days together is surely, surely good reason to have no fear for the future. Despair is presumptuous. It presumes that there is something out ahead that even the Great God cannot provide for." Now, God welcomes him home -to the sphere of the "Great Not Yet" as he used to say. It shall be a wonderful gift to be reunited with Dr. Claypool and Dwight Cobb in that "Great Not Yet."

Until my dying day, I shall always recite Dr. Claypool's benediction wherever I am, whatever I am doing:

"Depart now in the fellowship of God the Father. And as you go, remember, In the goodness of God you were born into this world. By the grace of God, you have been kept all the day long, even unto this hour. And by the love of God, fully revealed in the face of Jesus, You are being REDEEMED! Amen.

Sandy Harris

September 30, 2005

My condolences to you, John's family and my thanks to John for being the most readable and warm and engaging pastor and preacher I've ever met and heard.

Larry Buxton

September 30, 2005

I first spent time with John at the College of Preachers in the late 90's. His focus was on preaching through guilt, grief and grace, and it spoke well to the pastoral situation I was in. As the Dean of the Virginia United Methodist Goodson Academy of Preaching, it was my pleasure to welcome John as our leader in 2002. I enjoyed driving him back into Richmond to see family and on up to DC. He was as gentle, warm, and grace-filled a traveling companion in person as on paper.

Ann, our Virginia condolences to you and your family.

Marty Moon

September 25, 2005

Dear Rowan and Family,

My heartfelt sympathy to you all. Your dad was so special to all of us. Your mom was my Sunday School teacher at Broadway and your dad dedicated our first son there. We met again and again in Augusta and in Jackson. At each meeting and with each sermon and each book, your dad was a blessing to me more than words can express.

Mary Johnson

September 24, 2005

It was only recently that I discovered Dr. Claypool talking about forgiveness on a TV program and have just finished reading two of his books. His words are an inspiration to me. My sincere condolences to his family.

Carol Eickmeyer

September 23, 2005

Dear Rowan,

Learning of your father’s death sent me down memory lane to the ‘60s at Crescent Hill, when your dad, Dwight Cobb and Arnold Epply made a very powerful ministry team. I was in junior high when my ears finally opened and I began to get the message, thanks to your dad’s great story telling ability. The story that not only unlocked my brain but lodged there, was the one about cutting the ends off the ham and throwing them away. I figure he probably told it a gazillion times in a lot of different contexts but if you don’t remember it, write me and I’ll send it to you. The gist of the story was that we needed to understand why we do things and if we don’t understand, then we should ask a lot of questions. Your dad was as good at raising questions as at answering them, maybe even better at the question part. His influence turned me into a questioner and for that I am incredibly grateful.

Peace,

Paul & Janet Whiteley

September 21, 2005

My wife and I were members of Louisville, Kentucky's Crescent Hill Baptist Church during the last five years of Dr. Claypool's pastorate there. His masterful preaching, books, and Christ-like example impacted our lives and the lives of countless others. He was one of our heroes. Dr. Claypool had a tough mind and a tender heart, walked in Jesus' footsteps, and possessed a quality only truly great people possess--humility. My wife and I are thankful we got to see and listen to John Claypool preach. His earthly pilgrimage is over. He has gone to meet his Creator and start life anew in a heavenly place, but for years to come his sermons and books will be read by many other pilgrims seeking God and meaning for their lives.

Nancy A Turner

September 20, 2005

When I was a student at Georgetown Baptist College in Kentucky, Dr. Claypool spoke for many of our Chapel Services. I have always loved his speaking and his books and felt such a high sense of respect for him and his ministry. My condolences to his family

DIck & Sara Williams

September 18, 2005

Our lives were blessed by John's service here in Fort Worth and by his continuing friendship from that time on. We will miss him but with the comfort of knowing we will meet again.

Dave Maddlone

September 18, 2005

Forgive the length here. Like so many people who know the name John Claypool, I did not need to meet John in person, to love him. I am so deeply saddened that I will not meet him in this life. I learned of this delightful man a few years ago when a friend offered me audiotapes of his guest speaker sermons at First Baptist Church in Decatur, GA, near the end of May 2001. John could bring peace and understanding to this listener with a wondrous blend of wit, deep insight, as well as the soothing tone of his voice. He offered the wisdom of his own experiences in facing the toils and heartbreaks of life, and how God frequently works in ways which at first glance, are not so obvious.

I am comforted now with his passing, by some of John's very own words from one of those First Baptist sermons. John shared how he knew of a fellow Episcopal Priest, who had lost a friend(Charlie) to a long illness, and how in the final days, Charlie was at peace in realizing that "every exit, is also an entrance". Ironically, Charlie offered comfort to his grieving priest friend through an example of how as a child, he faced the first day of school, and it was a "death" or exit to staying at home, but a "birth" or entrance, to school as a place of development. He then had to "die" to kindergarten, and be "born" to Grade School, then he died to Grade School and was "born" to High School, then "died" to High School, then was "born" to College...and on through each stage of earthly life, Charlie realized that every "exit" was also an "entrance".

A few days later Charlie died, and the friend was asked by the family to be part of the Episcopal Funeral Office. Through Charlie's service, he listened to Charlie's eulogy and he was filled with the deep sadness in the loss of his dear friend. When it came time to carry Charlie's casket out through the church entrance, the friend turned with the others in procession, and there, he saw glowing above the entrance door, the sign placed at every door to the outside of a building by order of the local fire department, "E-X-I-T". Suddenly, Charlie's words came back to him; "Every exit is also an entrance".

This was so typical of John's masterful ability to relate real events in the Glory of God, which so many of us can miss. I am but one of many who have been touched by John as a true "masculine expression of God". While he may have exited from the earth we shared with him, he has passed through the entrance of the Kingdom of Heaven to see his precious baby Laura Lue, his childhood puppy, "Jigs", and countless others waiting to receive him. He has been, and remains, a blessing to many, and in that regard he will never exit the countless memories he has entered.

Most Respectfully, in Christ's love,

"A fellow struggler", David Maddlone

Karl Heinz Walter DD

September 15, 2005

Dear Family Claypool!

When in 1974 my son died of leukemia John Claypool's book "Tracks of a Fellow Struggler" was a great comfort and spiritual help. I have translated the book into German and added our own story. This book had had 5 editions, 3 in West-Germany, 2 in East-Germany(Communist Time). In 1995 it was also published in Russian. My wife and I, after having also met with John, have always felt very close to John Claypool and thank God for his spiriual honesty and sincerity which has been of such a great help to us and thousand others in Europe.

I mourn with you at this great loss.

Karl Heinz Walter DD, former General Secretary of the European Baptist Federation

Max Stapleton

September 14, 2005

I offer my most sincere condolences to Dr. Claypool’s family and friends and would like to express my gratitude and thanks for all of the comfort and instruction he provided me at Mercer University. I will carry with me the memory of Dr. Claypool wherever I may go.

Ashley Trenschel

September 14, 2005

Mrs. Claypool, Our deepest condolences to you and your family. Your husband will be sorely missed by Dunwoody Country Club Members and staff alike.

Jackie Bailey

September 14, 2005

I am so saddened with this news. While at the Seminary, I attended Crescent Hill Baptist in 1962-63 and learned more in that year from Dr. Claypool than in all the years previous. He was a soulful, brilliant, beautiful man and caused me to look for the best in myself and in others. I was a "green" young girl and he was able to draw me into a fold of love and joy. This is a sad day for the world but his example and teachings will live forever.

Ann Cawthon

September 14, 2005

John was the person who helped me to understand that God is love when I needed this more than anything. I am forever in his debt.

May that love give you what your heart needs as your mourn his death.

Jane Nettles

September 13, 2005

Dear Ann,

You and your family are in my prayers. I will always remember the many insights John shared and the powerful way that he delivered them in his preaching.

William Hemphill

September 13, 2005

Dear Ms. Claypool,

My condolences on the passing of your husband, Rev. John Claypool. The faith and hope that you and your husband both shared in the midst of crisis was an inspiration to me. My condolences and prayers are with you and the rest of the Claypool family.

Rev. William Hemphill, II

Chaplain - Dekalb Medical Center

Jan Thompson

September 13, 2005

Ann and family:

One of the greatest blessings of my life was studying with John Claypool at McAfee School of Theology. His encouragement and kind demeanor is a priceless legacy. I am truly blessed to have known this man who exemplified God to me, and I pray God's peace upon you.

Roger and Melva Matkin

September 12, 2005

Dear Rowan and Ann,

We thank God that we were blessed to have been a part of a fellowship led by John Claypool. He was indeed a gifted man of God through whom the very essence of our souls was touched.

His words, written and spoken, have shaped our view of the world, encouraged us on the journey, and helped us to better see the grace of God.

We, too, regret that he had "to leave the party early."

Gayle Timberlake Frey

September 12, 2005

John's was a life well lived to the glory of God.

Joe and Kristina LaGuardia

September 12, 2005

Upon hearing Dr. Claypool speak, spending time with him in seminary and reading his book, my life has not been the same since. He brought great joy and hope in my life. There were many occasions when he helped guide me to the light at the end of several darkened tunnels.

Ron and Jody Bruce

September 12, 2005

We have undoubtedly been motivated and encouraged to reach for our greatest spiritual growth through the sermons and teachings of John Claypool. We were fortunate enough to be in his presence for a week of teaching at Laity Lodge in the TX Hill Country in 1981, we heard him at a three-day session at St. John the Divine in Houston in the mid-nineties, and at Riverbend Church in Austin a few years ago. WHAT DEPTH! John was uniquely gifted to put the same words that are available to all of us in an order than spoke so meaningfully, eloquently, and powerfully, and united us with The Mystery, our Creator and loving Father. His life was a tremendous gift to all of us and we will cherish our books, tapes, and memories.

Michael Davis

September 12, 2005

I am greately saddened at the news of Dr. Claypool's death. As a Southern Baptist I was honored to have read his books and looked to him as a great example of God at work in his people. God bless Mrs. Claypool.

Tim Mathis

September 12, 2005

John was the calibur of preacher modeled to the students at the "old" Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. His book, The Preaching Event, continues to stand as one of the great texts in the field of preaching. People of heart-felt faith everywhere have lost a great thinker, preacher and family member in Christ.

Dan and Elizabeth Trollinger

September 11, 2005

Ann, Rowan, and Family:

We grieve with you in the loss of John, a true friend. He was a "Prophet of God" in his preaching. John's influence on our lives through his thought-provoking sermons and exemplary life is immeasurable.

We have his Benediction framed and hanging in the hallway of our home

and are constantly reminded of him.

We also have a library of his books and collection of printed sermons from his Churches; also, tapes of sermons. His messages will

continue to bless our lives. We thank our God for his life among us.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

douglas logan

September 11, 2005

I am a meber of st. lukes church and am very sad that our former rector died and i keep his family in my prayers.

Barbara Bachner

September 11, 2005

That voice, the message, the sweet benedictions. Our deepest sympathy to Rev. Claypool's family.

Jean Nations

September 11, 2005

My husband & I were first introduced to Dr. Claypool through his tape ministry years ago. We have both listened to our first set of his tapes taught on Genesis many times. They have inspired us and brought us much joy. We were fortunate to meet Dr. Claypool in person at the Christ Church Episcopal Church in Greenville, SC just before he began treatments for the illness that eventually took his life. We thank God for his life and ministry and pray for his family and friends during this time of grief.

Priscilla Tunnell

September 11, 2005

My prayers and blessings for the future go out of all of John's family and friends. We all feel a sense of loss and will greive in different ways. I choose to share insights that he gave to me with others I encounter and teach.

Kerry Garrett Williams

September 10, 2005

Dr. Claypool was my pastor growing up at Broadway in Fort Worth. I will always remember the words he said to me at my baptism, "There are three significant times in the life of a person. The day you are born, the day you realize WHY you were born and the day you die." Although, I was 13 at the time, those words have help guide me and priortize my life in the years that have followed. As youth, our group of friends always were delighted to hear him end each service with "...You are being redeemed." He will be missed.

Stephen Horvath

September 10, 2005

John Rowan Claypool

Pastor, Preacher, Scholar, Gentleman, Great and Good Spirit, Friend and Confidant; a man of grace and peace, full of wisdom and compassion made evident in his eyes and in his presence; a man in whom one might glimpse the spirit and truth of Christ our Lord.

The world is a much poorer place for having lost him.

My world is a much better place for his having passed through it.

Greedy for his presence and personhood I shall mourn for a great while to come. Thank you Dr. Claypool for the life you have lived; you have spent it well, and I have not words to communicate the manifold ways in which you have impacted my life. Go with God, up high on that mountain. I pine for the day that I will see you again on that mountain so I can thank you again for the life you have lived and the person that you are.

Doug and Patsy Dickens

September 10, 2005

Rowan,

Your dad was a model to so many of us of prophetic preacher, priest, and pastor. At Broadway, as at Crescent Hill and St. Lukes, he taught us all how to be "fellow strugglers," and better pilgrims on the journey.

Dear John, "Depart now in the fellowship of God your Father..." And as you go, we will "remember..."

Ann, thanks for continuing to share John and his ministry with us these past recent years. We are all debtors.

Gwyn LeBaron Eury

September 10, 2005

What a man of God; what a life and legacy; great are his rewards in heaven. He will remain in our hearts forever. He is truly home free. Our love and prayers are with his beloved family.

Thanks for all the years he served us so faithfully at Broadway Baptist Church.

Robby Kerr

September 9, 2005

My heart is warmed with every remembrance of John Claypool. He showed me how to be human and I cherish every moment I spent in his company. Dr. Claypool was the most authentic person I have ever encountered. We are less for having lost him, but far more for having ever shared this journey with him.

Anne LeBaron

September 9, 2005

I was blessed to have grown up hearing John preach and teach at Broadway Baptist Church. He made such an impact on my life and one that will never be forgotten. He was a man who walked in the real world and grew from his pain and taught us all about Grasshoppers in the Land of Giants. I would love to see his sermons in print.

Paul D. Simmons

September 9, 2005

John Claypool was an insightful and prophetic interpreter of Scripture. He was the inspiring pastor and friend of the "seminary church" when we came to Louisville. He continues in our memory as a truly great person to whom we are indebted in many ways. We celebrate his life and grieve his death. Peace and Grace to you.

Carrie Newton

September 9, 2005

When I read the e-mail from Allen with the news of Rev. Claypool's death for that moment my heart stopped and then the words, "Life is gift." emerged up out of my soul. John Claypool has touched my life deeply. I will continue to treasure the personal notes of encouragement that I received from John Claypool. His greatest gift to us all was that he allowed himself to be God's hands that touched us, God's mouth that spoke words of comfort and wisdom and God's ears that listened to us with caring concern as if we were the only one. Rev. Claypool ordained my pastor Don Dixon and through my pastor I learned of Rev. Claypool and had the opportunity to meet Ann and Rev. Claypool in Chattanooga a couple of years ago. John Claypool will forever be a part of my Christian journey. God's Blessings on the Claypool family during this time and in the month's to come.

Robert Congdon

September 8, 2005

He taught me as a high school teenager at Crescent Hill through his agony in the death of Laura Lu that Life is Gift. May you know God's contentment, even in the sadness of yours and all of our loss.

Missy Collins

September 8, 2005

Mrs. Claypool,

I want you to know I heard Dr. Claypool give a sermon on Hope and I have measured every sermon to that one. I carry the notes from that sermon with me always. Please know his wisdom touched more poeple than you know.

Thank you for bringing joy in his life so he could share his spirit with us.

Jonel Sallee

September 8, 2005

I can scarcely find the words to express my gratitude for the life of John Claypool, and for his formative impact on my life. I first met him in 1961 when I was a college student in Louisville. A few years later, he married my late husband and me. I moved to New England; Dr. Claypool left Louisville. But we kept in touch occasionally through mail, and we eventually made our separate ways to the Episcopal church. His books have inspired and sustained me in recent years, just as his sermons did at Crescent Hill. Rowan, you were a very young boy when I last saw you. You are in my thoughts and prayers now, as are Ann and the rest of your family. A great soul has passed our way. And now may he glory in the presence of the God Whom he brought so much nearer to us.

Ernestlea & Paul Williams

September 8, 2005

We have lost a great friend and outstanding teacher. Thanks be to God that we have had the privilege of knowing and loving John.

mike daley

September 8, 2005

dr claypool made a profound influence during his pastorate at chbc.and he still does today.i am grateful to have known him.he will live on forever in our hearts.your fingerprints are all over our souls.godspeed to dr claypool and his family.

Jane Daniels

September 8, 2005

Dear family of Dr.John Claypool,

Our sympathy is with you in the loss of your loved one.

He was special to us over many years. While I was a student nurse, I attended Crescent Hill. Dr Claypool spoke with me many times as I struggled as a young believer.

He married my husband and I in November of 1969. Over the years we have been blessed to hear him speak at various churches. I have also read some of his books and recommended them to others.

In Christian Love, Jane and Bill

Daniels.

Jocelyn Thornton

September 8, 2005

Dr. Claypool was a phenominal theologian and an extraordinary man who exemplified Christ with every life he touched. The grace and presence of God was surely with him. He taught me about preaching as "gift giving." I will never forget him and the eternal impact he has had, and will have, on my ministry. I will miss him.

Bill Kingsbery

September 8, 2005

Ann,

We just learned of John's death. What a blessing you were to one of God's finest servants.

Nanette Woodworth

September 8, 2005

I am deeply grateful for how John's wisdom and wit (what an incredible teller of story) and interpretor of the Bible has informed and inspired my work in Christian Formation, and for the pastoral presence with which both he and Ann blessed our family. A great light has gone out.

Rev. Denise Currie-Lowe

September 8, 2005

When I walked into Dr. Claypool's "Preaching as Pastoral Care Class", I knew that God had provided a wordsmith, theologian, and Man of God. I will greatly miss his quiet spirit, his ability to point out our gifts in preaching, and provide us words of comfort.

My family and I pray blessings upon the Claypool Family during this time of Solace and Grief. May God continue to surround each and everyone of you.

Peace

Rev. Denise Currie-Lowe

Ron Boswell

September 8, 2005

I chose The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1970 partly to experience the preaching of John Claypool at Cresent Hill. It was a time of academic and spiritual growth for me. Some years later while serving as Baptist Campus Minister at The University of Mississippi, John gave the same kindness and inspiration to the next generation of students that he gave to mine. He will always have a special place in my heart.

Allison Edwards-Travis

September 8, 2005

John christened me as a baby at Broadway Baptist Church in Dallas, TX. I still have the new testament from him. Our family has always looked to him as such a wonderful giving and gracious man. I can only imagine the size of his house in heaven. I am honored that he was there at the beginning of my journey as a christian. And through his writings he helped me deal with many troubled times in my life. To the family, thank you for sharing him with the world. He is great man.

Bob White

September 8, 2005

In John's classes at All Saints in Atlanta I experienced God's everpresent love. I will miss him.

Christopher Hamlin

September 8, 2005

John was one of the first established pastors to call me when I came to Birmingham in 1990 to assume the pastorate of Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. He became a dear friend, always gracious and kind with warm words of encouragement. I am grateful for his caring spirit, pastoral friendship, and significant contributions to our metropolitan community. "Fare ye well."

oscar persons

September 8, 2005

Virginia and I had the privilege of hearing Dr. Claypool speak at All Saints' Episcopal events. I have not been moved more by any Man of God (other than my Father). He was truly a servant of Jesus Christ. He has "fought the good fight and finished the course...."

Daniel Nance

September 7, 2005

Ann,

I cannot tell you what it has meant to get to know Dr. Claypool over the past two years as his TA at McAfee. He has taught us all what it means to be compassionate gift-givers. We are grateful for the gift of his life - a gift that has touched many souls and will continue to be a legacy of inspiration.

Thanks be to God for people like Dr. John Claypool - a loving Saint who has truly impacted us all. Ann, know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sandy Goodman Short

September 7, 2005

With deepest appreciation to God for the ministry and gift of His servant, John Claypool. He was my friend and my pastor both in Louisville and Fort Worth.His ministry has continued to bless me.

Rowan , how blessed he was to have you as a son.My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Well done thou good and faithful servant.Thank you for showing us the face of Jesus.

Debra Walters

September 7, 2005

Dr. Claypool came into my spiritual formation as a minister in my third and final year at McAfee. He was so beloved by the students. His reputation was honorable. I did not need his class nor the credit hours for graduation. I took this class he taught to see if this man was everything I had heard. I was spellbound. I missed zero classes and had lunch a few times with him that last semester at school. To learn, and listen to the mentoring care and wisdom of Dr. Claypool was a rare treasure. I am just one of many who was blessed that our paths crossed. I will share what he said to me the last time we spoke. As a graduating student stepping out into ministry in my 40's and a woman, he encouraged me with, " live a brave journey." My prayers of sympathies go with the Claypool family. Dr. Claypool showed us future ministers at McAfee and many others in his history how to, "live a brave journey." Peace be with you. Thank you for sharing him with McAfee. His influence there was powerful, and eternal. Deb Walters

Jeremy Pittman

September 7, 2005

In my days at McAfee School of Theology I knew that Dr. Claypool was a man of God. He was full of wisdom, hope, encouragement and the love of God. His life truly was a blessing to all that he ever met. The life of John Claypool is the model of faith and trust in our loving Saviour Jesus Christ that was unfailing in the face of adversity. His life will always be a symbol of strength, honor, perseverance and ultimate victory.

Dr.Claypool's inspirations will live on in my heart and the hearts of many. I will always remember his great strength. My prayers are for the healing, comforting of the hearts and minds of the family and friends of Dr. John Claypool, In Jesus Mighty name, Amen.

May the love of God Truly bless the family and friends of Dr. Claypool with hopeful hearts. In Jesus Christ Holy name, Amen.

I love you all through Christ,

Jeremy Pittman

Gary Moore

September 7, 2005

There are many memories of John Claypool for those of us who knew him as a pastor early in his ministry. While a seminary student at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a member of Crescent Hill Baptist Church, we all shared in the death of his daughter Laura. One Sunday he preached the sermon that became a book about times when God does not give us the strength to fly with wings of eagles, but enough strength to walk and not faint. Laura was very sick and died shortly after this sermon.

As he finished speaking, and sat in the pastor's chair near the pulpit, everyone in the church was quietly crying and no one wanted to leave. This was the most profound sermon I ever heard.

We are all quietly crying with his son Rowan and other family members during this sad time. But John would want us all to celebrate his life and we do that in remembrance of him and what he meant to so many.

Dr. Joe W. Dixon

September 7, 2005

Dr. John Claypool was for me what a religious leader should be -- a mentor, philosopher, friend, and compassionate follower of Christ. John babtized me, counseled me before marriage, and married my wife and I. There is an absence in the cloth of the world with his passing. Our sympathies to his family and all who loved him.

Kim Dixon

September 7, 2005

I doubt that John Claypool realized the influence he had on my life. I came to St. Luke's on the heals of a divorce and after burying my only daughter. John opened his heart to me, "A fellow struggler," in a way that no priest ever has. He exuded the Love of Christ and his compassion was palpable. His concern and caring was genuine and evident in his every word. I still have my copy of John's book about his own experience with loss which I treasure. And, I'll never forget the sharing of his clown to symbolize Christ's hands enveloping me during such a difficult time. John later officiated at my marriage at St. Lukes some years later. His gentle presence and soothing voice is forever captured on videotape which my husband and I watch every year on our anniversary.

God's blessings to the Claypool family--Know that John was so loved by so many.

DeColores, John! Go with God.

Kim & Joe Dixon

Cynthia Canada

September 7, 2005

Dr. Claypool's words and vision have been the light at the end of more than one tunnel for me in recent years. There has been great healing in his willingness to reach into his own deeply personal sadness, questions, and even doubts, and to find in them and share with us his certainty of God's redemptive love. One who touches our hearts so profoundly will never be lost to us.

Alice Tremaine

September 7, 2005

What a mark he has left in the world! We will miss him dearly! I will always remember his wonderful presence and scent in the halls of the McAfee School of Theology.

Naomi Brown

September 7, 2005

Dr. Claypool's warm smile and friendly greetings will be greatly missed in the halls of the McAfee School of Theology, but his spirit will live on. He was a man of great faith who loved others and lived a life that truly showed a picture of Jesus to the world. May the impact he made on the lives of so many continue on through the lives they will touch for generations to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

Nancy Thurmond

September 7, 2005

Your entire famaily has been in our thoughts and prayers in your loss. It has been OUR LOSS. From the day we first met John Claypool at Broadway Baptist Church he has been a huge part of our life and thought. We have numerous tapes of his sermons, can remember clearly his voice and his laugh, and recall with clarity and gratitude his personal friendship with us. No one can fill the place in our hearts, and so many of our theological ideas and principles have been from John Claypool. We were privileged to go to his service when he became an Episcopal deacon and again when he was ordained as a priest. May God's grace be real to all of the family.

Nancy and Jim Thurmond, Fort Worth

Devita Parnell

September 7, 2005

Thanks be to God for this one who has blessed many! I am grateful for the few grace-filled moments that I shared with Dr. Claypool. With love and sympathy,

Devita Parnell

Mark Harman

September 7, 2005

I had the enormous honor of studying under Dr. Claypool at McAfee School of Theology and can say without hesitation that he has touched and changed my life. I can vividly remember walking the halls of McAfee and feeling the gentle touch of Dr. Claypool's arm around my shoulder as we talked along the way to worship services. While you were in his presence you always knew that here stood a man who dwells in the presence of God. Dr. Claypool helped me to understand the face of true kindness and unconditional love for others.

Thank you Dr. Claypool for blessing my life and the lives of those around you.

Jim Kerr

September 7, 2005

When I think of the people who have most influenced my Christian life, John Claypool is #1. He taught me about the grace, love, and acceptance of Jesus Christ. I mourn his death and thank God for his life.

Jim Kerr

Philip Wise

September 7, 2005

John Claypool had the ability to be intimate from a distance. When you heard him preach or read from his writings, you felt that you knew him. He was in person what you thought he would be like -warm, compassionate, interested in you. I will treasure our friendship forever. He will always be remembered with great affection at Second Baptist Church of Lubbock.

Brett Baddorf

September 7, 2005

Dr. Claypool has changed so many lives through his ministry that it almost seems a drop in the ocean to say that he also changed mine. In refusing to retire from full-time ministry by transitioning to seminary student ministry at McAfee, I watched as John continued to touch lives for Christ. Some classes I have taken at this seminary have touched me and taught me a great deal, but in taking three classes from John on preaching my entire theology and outlook on God completely changed. I am now Claypoolian in how I think.

Dr. Claypool knew how to love as God loves, and it has made all the difference in the world.

Thank you John, thank you Ann, for your ministry and love. I look forward to when I join my teacher and friend in eternity.

James Mackey

September 7, 2005

Dr. Claypool brought forth wisdom and care in the words he spoke. I feel like I graduated a semester too early from the McAfee School of Theology since he joined the faculty just after graduation.

Mark Meeks

September 7, 2005

I, too, was one of those for whom John preached an ordination sermon. I still remember the theme of it and still can quote portions of it, after 32 years. He was always from my seminary days till now a wonderful model and inspiration for ministry. Though I've not spoken with him for years, I still bear a sense of his friendship and wisdom accompanying me in the ministry, and I know his death will not alter that for me. I pray God will comfort and sustain all those nearest him who now bear the burden of his passing.

Ana Veloz

September 7, 2005

Dr Claypool was an inspiration to all of us. My sincere condolences to the family.

We will miss him greatly. He was a sense of comfort to many of our patients, as well as an inspiration.

Know that he suffers no more and that he is safe in the arms of our Lord Jesus.

Sincerely,

Ana Veloz----GA Cancer Specialist Registered Nurse

Taisha Rose

September 7, 2005

Dr. Claypool will certainly be missed. His presence was a welcoming one here at McAfee and his great and loving spirit has left its mark. My prayers and thoughts are with all the lives he touched and forever changed...Thank You Dr. Claypool for living a life of service, worship, and reconciliation. May we all follow in your wonderful example!

Ben Sandford

September 7, 2005

My heart sank this past Sunday when Dr. Claypool's death was announced. I have never heard a better preacher. And I became a better preacher in the process of listening. His willingness to speak with me when I was considering the episcopal priesthood meant the world to me. We never met face-to-face on this earth, but I look forward to the day when I will have eternity to sit and talk with this great man. I imagine the line will be long.

Michelle Brooks

September 7, 2005

Dr. Claypool was a true saint, an excellent teacher and an inspiration to us all. He blessed McAfee with his kindness, gentleness and humor...and he will be missed. Even as I grieve his loss, I rejoice that I was able to know him and be blessed by him. To Anne and his family...your loved one leaves a great legacy of love, courage and inspiration. Thank you for sharing him with us.

Morgan Ponder

September 7, 2005

I am one of many who has benefitted from John's preaching, writing, and the example of his life.

Shaeron Moorhead

September 7, 2005

John was pastor at 2nd Baptist in Lubbock and guested at Wilshire Baptist Church. I was lucky enough to hear him at both churches and I've read his books and listened to his tapes. What a man and what a leader he was! We were priviledged to be comforted by his wise words and wisdom. Thank you, John. You so deserve the reward you are now enjoying.

Wayne Hill

September 7, 2005

Dr. Claypool made so many wonderful contributions to the field of pastoral ministry in his writing, preaching, teaching, and faithful witness. We will miss him greatly. Our love and deepest sympathy are extended to his family. Wayne & Kay Hill

John David McGee

September 7, 2005

As a student at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, KY (1964-68), I became acquainted with John Claypool who, at the time, was the young, dynamic pastor of Crescent Hill Baptist Church. His "confessional" (sharing from his own experience) and fearless (willing to deal with contemporary and controversal issues--i.e., the pervasive issues relating at the time to Civil Rights, Viet Nam and Vatican II), low-key, eloquent style of preaching, both filled the two morning services at church, and nurtured the morning service radio audience. His "dialogue" sessions each Sunday evening with members who wished to discuss the issues of the morning's message was, for me, a unique approach to congregational participation, in sermons that were rooted in real life. His own sharing of his spiritual "pilgrimage" was a model for others of us dealing with serious life choices. His willingness to explore and grow personally has been an inspiration during my life.

Ever since then, John Claypool has been one of my genuine life heroes; one of the most worthy examples I have encountered over the years of what it means to perform real ministry, whose words and example are still vivid to me after all these years.

What a gift to have known and heard him! What a loss, not to hear him again! I will never forget his benediction to the congregation following each Sunday morning service:

"Depart now in the Fellowship of

God the Father.

And as you go, remember

In the Goodness of God

you were born into this world;

By the Grace of God

you have been kept all the day

long, even unto this hour;

And by the Love of God

fully revealed in the face of Jesus

you are being redeemed."

Thank you, John Claypool.

Maurice E. Brantley

September 7, 2005

An other choice servant of God has received the home Jesus has been preparing for him for 2000 years. Love and condolences to the family and deep appreciation for the life and work of a beloved servant of God.

Maurice E. Brantley

Fred & Marylou Levrets

September 7, 2005

May God give you and your His peace during this difficult time in the passing from this world of your beloved.

Jim Roberts

September 6, 2005

I was chaplain at Kirkwood by the River retirement community in Birmingham, and John was rector at St. Luke's. I invited John to be guest preacher at one of our weekly chapel services. While in my study, before entering the chapel, John bowed his head before me and asked me to bless him. Such humility was such a humbling experience for me. It's amazing how he touched so many lives in so many ways with such profundity unbeknownst to John. Thank God for the ministry of John Claypool.

Jeanie Miley

September 6, 2005

Over a thirty-four year period, I had four conversations with John Claypool that were life-giving, challenging and faith-shaping. He was a light among us, and I treasure the privilege of having known him and been taught by him.

Phil Strickland

September 6, 2005

John was deeply committed to letting his life, in every possible way, be the presence of God's grace among us. He did that through his remarkable ability to communicate the gospel and through his willingness to share with us his own journey. I am a Baptist who shared some of that journey with him. In so doing I learned much from him about the love and grace of God. He taught it by living it and I am forever grateful.

Marcia & Jerry Jacob

September 6, 2005

John Claypool was a mentor, a spiritual guide and an inspiration. We got to meet him on one or two occasions, at Cursillo closuras. We listened to his tapes, read his books and grew to admire him because of all the wonderful things people who knew him said about him. He was a leader, yet a listener. To us he was the epitome of an Episcopal priest, someone any parish could welcome into their pulpit and their hearts. We will miss him dearly, yet thank God for our knowledge of him.

Chris Bowers

September 6, 2005

One of the first ministers I heard about when I began attending Southern Seminary in the mid-1970s was John Claypool. His pastorate at Crescent Hills Church was well known among us students and he was much admired for his sermons and guidance about being the church in our day. I received his sermons by mail for a time and still have many. He was and has remained a model of Christian life and prophetic ministry. Though his passing is sad to hear, I feel somehow spiritually energized again just recalling his presence in the Crescent Hill community as I worked through seminary studies. I am grateful for what God provided to us as students through Rev. Claypool and for the spiritual legacy he left for many since that day until now.

Dennis & Laura Smith

September 6, 2005

John was a wonderful, thought provoking pastor to us at Broadway BC in Ft. Worth, TX. We will never forget his reading of Martin Bell's Barrington Bunny at the Agape Meal in preparation for Advent or his eloquent benedictions.

Charles and LaVonne Wilson

September 6, 2005

We will be forever grateful for John's ministry to Broadway Baptist Church in Fort Worth and for his continuing personal friendship. We are especially grateful for his and Ann's watchcare over our son at Second Baptist Church in Lubbock.

Randy Wright

September 6, 2005

I remember with great admiration this gifted preacher, thinker, and pastor.

God's peace to his family and loved ones.

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