John Paul Marett, Jr.

John Paul Marett Jr., 53, of Black Mountain, passed away from kidney failure on January 22^nd, 2024.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Olivia Gail Ensley and John Paul Marett Sr., and his nephew Casey Young. 

He was born on August 23^rd, 1970, and grew up in Swannanoa.  He graduated from Owen High School in 1988 where his name is written as an All-State Baseball Player, 1987 on the baseball dugout wall today. He was drafted right out of High School at 17 and signed with the Baltimore Orioles minor league as a starting pitcher. That first year he played in Bluefield, WV with a 2.89 ERA. He played for the Baltimore Orioles for 3 years. John’s first love was baseball and he remained connected to the sport throughout his life. He was also a talented artist, guitarist, and drum player. Everyone who knew him could see past his tough exterior and right into his thoughtful, soft heart.

 John is survived by his loving, faithful and devoted wife Gwenell Hammond Marett; daughter Anna Marett; son, Chris Metcalf; sister, Tracy Kitchen; grandchildren, Harmony Marett, Landon Marett and Kylie Metcalf; a very special niece; Sarah Miranda and husband Tony Davidson, Jr. John leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and family members. 

 The family wants to express gratitude to all the family members, extended family and friends that have prayed, supported, and loved John through all seasons of his life. The family would like to send a special thank you to wife Gwenell; for taking care of him with patience and gentleness, speaking the gospel to him daily and showing him what unconditional love feels and looks like, and holding his hand until his last breath. The family would also like to send a special thank you to the healthcare workers.  

 In lieu of flowers the family asks that you consider a donation to your local youth athletic organization on his behalf. The family will have a private ceremony to celebrate the life of John. A public celebration of life service will be held at a later date.  Honorary pallbearers are Richard Mcpeters, Billy Stewart, Bobby Parks, Johnny Hall, William (Jay) Allen, Lee Hammond, Matt Davis and Jeff Young. 

 “We know you're in a place where all your wounds have been erased
 And knowing yours are healed is healing mine, 

The only scars in Heaven, they won't belong to me and you
 There'll be no such thing as broken, and all the old will be made new
 And the thought that makes me smile now, even as the tears fall down
 Is that the only scars in Heaven are on the hands that hold you now, 

I know the road you walked was anything but easy
 You picked up your share of scars along the way
 But now you're standing in the sun, you've fought your fight, the pain is all a million miles away”...home run! 

(Scars in Heaven by Casting Crowns)