John Wesley King died Saturday October 18, 2008. I know retired SSG King from being in the 116th Army National Guard Band in Ellenwood, Georgia. He was such a wonderful presence: knowledgeable musician willing to fix instruments on a whim, organize sectionals, played in so many groups with several different instruments. He was also great at uplifting spirits, especially when my parents died, both of them.
I miss him already.
To his family, Mrs. Mary King and Wesley, I wish you God's comforting.
- Christine Pressley (Walker) Ikeazor
Flute player, 116th Army Band
10/22/2008
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It was mid 1990's when the band was at Ft. Stewart for AT. We were all outside during commanders time playing basketball. I was drinking something when John came and sat by me, sweating and thirsty. I offered him a drink from my bottle. He looked at me with his careing eyes and warm smile. He seemed a little suprised about the offer. He accepted the bottle, took a big swig, and after a short moment of thought, said, "Jim, you just made the first step to brotherhood." I'm not sure if his words were a Black to Asian/White thing, or a man to man thing, or both. Either way, I gathered that we would be great friends for a very long time. Since then, John has made my days with the band a place of joy and peace. I think he did that for everyone. The place lit up when he walked in. He was always so very positive, and loved to play! His excitement made me excited. Well, John, I'm just glad that I'll be seeing you very soon, so go ahead and warm-up your clarinet, the rest of the combo and dixieland band will be there shortly to play for GOD...meanwhile, we'll open up a solo spot for you down here. See Ya' soon John!
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