Dr. John Werner Schaerer (Pap)

July 18, 1942- March 28, 2022 (79 years of age)

John Schaerer (Pap), 79, of Chattanooga, was called to his heavenly home on March 28, 2022.

John was born on July 18, 1942 in Chattanooga, TN. He was a faithful longtime member of Brainerd United Methodist Church and attended Calvary Chapel of Chattanooga. He graduated from Chattanooga High School in 1960.  His passion for higher education began by earning both a bachelor's degree in Biology and a Master's degree in Education at the University of Chattanooga.  John completed his doctoral degree from the University of Tennessee Knoxville in 1972 and thus began his education career.

Dr. Schaerer shaped and developed many young minds as a teacher and principal in the Chattanooga, TN Public School system, founding superintendent of the Albertville City Schools, Albertville, AL  and Personnel & Staff Development for Dalton, GA Public Schools.

John Schaerer tirelessly contributed to the community through his work with CEO's for Cities, SimCenter Enterprises, Kiwanis Club, The Enterprise Center, Riverbend Technology Institute, Metropolitan College, UTC Special Assistant to the Chancellor, Coalition for Urban and Metropolitan Universities, Phi Delta Kappa, and many others.  His work resulted in numerous honors and publications. He was always eager to help others.

One of his favorite places was "the fish camp" in the Ellijay, GA mountains.  He could be found there with a line wet at all times.  His face would light up at the mention of fishing.

John was preceded in death by his parents Emil Tucker "Tuck" and Dorothy Schaerer and his brother Emil Tucker "Bud" Scharerer II.

Family held a special place in John's life.  He is survived by his wife Barbara of 58 years, children Starr Smith (Nathan), Suzanne Stehr (Kirk), grandchildren Brittany Stehr (fiancé, John Coates) and Nolan Smith.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 30, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  at Brainerd United Methodist Church, 4135 Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37411. Funeral Service directly following at 1:00 p.m. at the church officiating will be Pastor Richard Looney and Pastor Frank Ramseur.

Interment will follow at Brainerd United Methodist Church Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to:

Calvary Chapel Chattanooga, 3415 Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37409 ( www.calvarychatt.com )

Or Hearth Hospice, 513 Georgia Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37403 ( www.hearthhospice.com )

Arrangements are entrusted to Hamilton Funeral Home, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson (423) 531-3975.