I worked with Mr. Rone at Rhodes College. He was an awesome person and he is missed. He always made it happen at the graduations. I am sad to learn about this. Praying for his family and friends!

I knew Johnny growing up. His mother , Emma Sue, was great friends with my grandfather. ( my grandfather lived across the road). They fished together, and went to church together, always accompanied by Mickey, her big red dog. Johnny was in the band, and a wonderful pianist - his father was transferred his senior year, so his mother rented a small apartment in town so he could finish his senior year there in Covington before he went to Southwestern. In fact , I was Johnny’s Senior prom date! Since his dad was transferred out of state, and then my grandfather died, we didn’t see much of the Rone family after that. Bill, so sorry for your loss. I know how much FUN Johnny was. Know all his friends will miss him, too.

Although I haven’t seen Johnny for many years, the impact of learning of his death was like a body blow. Seldom have I known a man or director who was so modest, loving and talented. I think back on so many wonderful memories I’ve shared with him and Bill as well. There are so many more people like me who have been profoundly affected by sharing with this wonderful and true friend. He is missed. But I give thanks that I did have the opportunities I shared with him and the people that surrounded him.

Bill,
Please accept my sympathy and thoughts from across the pond. Every time I visited Rhodes you and he were and integral part of that world, so supportive of this limey director, such a pleasure to chat to and gossip with, and such an integral part of the Memphis Theatre world. I was so sorry to learn of his passing on Facebook, and you are much in my thoughts, my friend. Deepest sympathy and much love to you, and happy memories of a dear man.
Nick

Hello Bill,
Please accept our heartfelt sympathy. I’m just getting into town this evening and just found out about this and I’m so very sorry .
we had no idea that he was ill, We are in Germany and a bit out of the loop. We are very sorry.
Godspeed,

Cristina, Andrew, & Chelsea Michta

Love you, JJ Man!

Bill, You are on my mind and in my prayers. I hope you have been able to rest. Much love,Claire

How very saddened we were to hear of John’s death. What a magnificent actor and man he was. Please know that you are in our prayers and heart.

We love you! We are holding you in our hearts. N

Bill-- I was so sorry to hear about John's cancer and his passing. I know this is a difficult time for you and all those who knew John. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. John was an important part of our SW experience, as were you -- and both of you have contributed significantly to Rhodes in the years since we graduated. I'm glad to count both of you among my lasting friends, even if we seldom saw each other in person. I will hold you both in my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Fred