Dr. Joe Kyle Kilgore, 86 of Jasper passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Saturday, August 23.
Born in Richard City to Melvin Ras Kilgore and Ella Mae Locke Kilgore, Dr. Kilgore grew up with a love of hunting, fishing, and football. Following high school, he received a college scholarship to play football at Tennessee Technological University, where he was the co-captain of the 1959 OVC Championship Team and received the Best Defensive Player Trophy. After completing the 1959 football season, he entered the University of Tennessee of Memphis School of Dentistry, graduating in 1962.
A man of deep faith, Dr. Kilgore was a long-time member of Jasper’s First Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, interim choir director and choir member. He was also bestowed the title of Deacon Emeritus for his faithful service and ministry to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and God’s church in 2018.
Dr. Kilgore was a man deeply devoted to his family, his profession, and his community. Beyond his distinguished services as a dental officer in the Unites States Public Health Service, Dr. Kilgore continued to give back in meaningful and lasting ways. He served his community through various commitments, including his time on the Marion County School Board, as well as the Marion County Commission.
A man of strong moral conviction and quiet leadership, Dr. Kilgore was a 32-degree member of the Scottish Rite.
Dr. Kilgore was a beloved dentist in Jasper for 44 years, known not only for his professional excellence, but also for his genuine kindness and humor he shared with each patient who sat in his chair. His work was more than a career; it was a calling of service and his gentle presence made a lasting impression on countless lives throughout the community.
Beyond the dental chair, Dr. Kilgore was a gifted woodworker who found joy in creating with his hands. Whether it was crafting furniture and small treasures, or quilting and crocheting, his love for detail and design reflected the same care he gave to all aspects of life.
Dr. Kilgore shared a beautiful life with his devoted wife, Patsy Colvard Kilgore – the love of his life and constant companion. Their bond was one of enduring love and partnership, cherished by all who knew them.
Dr. Kilgore’s legacy is one of service, kindness, generosity, and faith. A life well lived and well loved.
Dr. Kilgore was preceded in death by his parents Melvin Ras Kilgore and Ella Mae Locke Kilgore, wife Patsy Colvard Kilgore, son Joe Kyle Kilgore II, brother Melvin Loyd Kilgore, sister-in-law Betty Sue Graham Kilgore, sister Imogene Kilgore Vinson and brother-in-law Raymond Vinson.
He is survived by his children Elizabeth (Libba) Estep (Marc) Carter of Brentwood, TN, Kayla Kilgore McGowan of Jasper, daughter-in-law Carroll White Kilgore of Columbia, TN, grandchildren Jackson Colvard Estep and Elizabeth Graham Estep both of Brentwood, TN, Joe Kyle (Emma Kate) Kilgore III and Adam Carroll (Karsyn McCanless) Kilgore of Columbia, TN, Robert Andrew (Bailey) McGowan and Katelyn Mae McGowan of Jasper, great granddaughters Brielle Adeline McGowan and Mary Helen Kilgore, brother-in-law Charles B. ( Winkie) Colvard, as well as special caregiver and friend Shannon Belk Minter.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday, August 26 at 12 p.m. at the Jasper Chapel of Rogers Funeral Home, with the Pastor Greg Steele who officiated.
Dr. Kilgore was laid to rest with beloved wife of 60 years, Patsy Colvard Kilgore at Pine Grove Cemetery in Jasper.
Visitation was held Monday, August 25 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and on Tuesday, August 26 from 10:30 a.m. till 12 p.m. prior to the funeral service being hosted in the Jasper Chapel of Rogers Funeral Home.
Active pallbearers were Joe Kyle Kilgore III, Robert Andrew McGowan, Jackson Colvard Estep, Adam Carroll Kilgore, Katelyn Mae McGowan and Randall Kyle Kellermann.
The family requested memorials be made to the Jasper First Baptist Church Building Fund or the Jasper Public Library.
Arrangements were made by Rogers Funeral Home, 21 East Fifth Street, Jasper, Tennessee (423) 942-2682 or (423) 837-7176.
The Marion Tribune – September 4, 2025