John Laith Keilany
John Laith Keilany, 48, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2024, at Memorial Hospital in Chattanooga.
He was born on Sept. 19, 1975, in Chattanooga into a loving family with devoted parents, Rose and Ziad, and brother, Paul. John Laith Keilany is also survived by his uncle, Paul Jamushian, Fresno, CA and his aunt, Sheila Johnson, Upland, Ca.
Laith started his education at Bright School, then finished his junior and high school years at Baylor School. After High School, Laith attended the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, where he received his Bachelor of Arts in English.
Laith possessed many gifts, but none shone as brightly as his passion for music and his boundless generosity and compassion. Laith’s kindness and joy touched the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Whether he was enchanting audiences with his music or simply brightening someone's day with a smile, Laith had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel seen, heard, and understood.
Laith’s talents were nothing short of brilliant. He was a gifted musician who loved to perform and create music that moved people. Laith’s music gave the world unforgettable moments. Whether on grand stages like opening for legend B.B. King, teaching guitar students how to create their own magic, jamming on guitar and oud with his friends, or collaborating with esteemed choreographers and dance companies, Laith's music had the power to uplift, inspire, and unite. He absolutely loved being a guitar and ukulele teacher, whether at Pick and Grin, at his home studio, and especially at the Episcopal School of Knoxville (ESK) as their string band teacher until 2019.
Beyond his musical talent, Laith will be remembered most for his spirit – one characterized by unparalleled kindness and compassion. Despite personal health setbacks over the years, he exuded love - for his family, his friends, and even strangers. Laith's acts of caring were not just occasional gestures; they were a way of life for him. Whether it was offering a listening ear, a needed joke, or a comforting hug, he never hesitated to offer support to those around him. Ever.
Laith conveyed his own thoughts about death many years ago, sharing words to offer comfort to others at the time, and that, in true Laith fashion, may offer solace now:
“When you lose someone, it helps when you realize that they are now in a more beautiful place than we can dream of. And that feeling of loss can be remedied by letting sadness change to faith in love. We have to keep loving the people in our lives, even when it feels like a burden. Love is what makes us feel most alive.”
May Laith’s memory serve as a reminder of the power of kindness, generosity, and most of all love. He was the brightest light with the kindest heart.
The family will receive family and friends on Friday, May 31, from 4-8 p.m. at the Heritage Funeral Home on East Brainerd Road. The service will be held on Saturday, June 1, at 12 p.m. at the Heritage Funeral Home followed by a burial service at Hamilton Memorial Gardens Cemetery. A larger celebration of life will follow in July with details to be shared at a later date.
Visit the online obituary www.heritagechattanooga.com to post tributes and share memories.
Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Chapel.