John Dillinger North

On Thursday, June 23, 2022, John Dillinger North, passed away at the age of 66. John was born on August 29, 1955, in Pineville Kentucky to Lee and Mary North. He grew up in the area, moved to Florida in his teens, then returned to Appalachia in his early 20’s. John worked in coal mining for over 30 years. He began his career working maintenance on third shift and held many progressive titles until he eventually became an owner/operator of multiple mines. He was married to Lorraine North for 25 years and they raised two children, Robert and Felicia, first living in Pineville, Kentucky, then Powell Valley,Tennessee. John then moved to New Tazewell, Tennessee in 2003 where he resided with his wife, Kathy North, until his passing. John had many passions in life. He was always extremely creative and mechanically inclined. John could usually be found in his garage creating new pieces and restoring old ones. He was particularly fond of woodworking. For years John was a member of the craft guild. John made and sold brooms on his father’s antique broom machine and passed the art down to his children. John loved the lake. Fishing and boating were some of his most beloved pastimes. All who knew him also knew he was a true lover of the art of conversation. John was an amazing storyteller and his stories will always live on inside us. John’s sense of humor and outgoing personality will be sorely missed. John was a beloved father, husband, brother, and friend. He is survived by Kathy North (wife), Bobby North (son), Felicia North (daughter), Melissa North (daughter-in-law), Madison North (granddaughter), Alex North (grandson), Carl Buckner (father- in-law), and Lorraine North (ex-wife). He is also survived by Drucilla Carter (sister), Lee North Jr. (brother), Homer North (brother), Dicey Epps (sister), Martha Jimenez (sister), Gaynelle Viola (sister) and numerous nieces, nephews as well as other extended family members and friends. John was preceded in death by Lee Mack North (father), Mary Calvin North (mother), Glenda Lee Hall (mother-in-law), Opal Tinsley (sister), Sherman North (brother), Finley North (brother), and Jesse James North (brother). Funeral and visitation will be held at Arnett & Steele Funeral Home in Pineville, Kentucky on Saturday, July 16th. Visitation for family will begin at 11:00 AM, family and friends at 11:30 AM, and the funeral service will commence at 2:00 PM. Arnett & Steele Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Pineville is honored to serve the North Family. Light a candle of remembrance and sign the guest register at www.arnettsteele.com.