Dick Kiser . . . In Memorium

Kiser was a wonderful friend, who will be greatly missed. He shall be remembered for his many talents . . . his perfect radio voice, quick wit, twinkling eyes, gracious manners and incredible stories, just to name a few. RIP, dear Kiser and keep watch over your precious family. Stephanie Rountree Nashville, TN USA - Friday, December 30, 2005 at 19:05:08 (EST) Every night at the Smoke Shop he would either come in or call for his 2 oz. of Green Hills and maybe some pipe cleaners or Zippo fluid. I used to call this the "Kiser Special". I always loved the way he would weigh and bag his own tobacco from the customer side of the tobacco bar. He would always ask how close he was to his 2 oz. and I would always tell him "Almost...." and let him get more even though he already weighed out enough. He always had a smile and a great story! Yes, I was also one of recipients of the boxes of popcorn. "Got any kettle corn in there, Kiser?" I can still see him leaning up against the tobacco bar, gently puffing on his pipe, laughing and telling a story. Jeff Rupard <midgetsrawk@gmail.com> Spring Hill, TN USA - Wednesday, December 21, 2005 at 21:26:21 (EST) Had the coolest line of anyone entering that old smokeshop... "Hey Dick, what's happnin'?" "Oh, just ridin' around...hop on in." Welcoming, funny, caring, ...lasting. "When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life in such a way that when you die, the world cries and you rejoice." Unknown Native American Brad Emery <3emerys@gmail.com> Nashvegas, TN USA - Tuesday, December 20, 2005 at 18:37:42 (EST) If Only The love that they had Through thick and through thin, An example for all An envious thing. Always and constant Ever abiding; Their battles they fought, From strife never hiding. At the gate he’ll be waiting For his loved ones to come; Eyes twinkling so bright, Smile full of fun. If only we all Could have what they had A lifetime of talk A wonderful dad If each partner were soul mates As Dick was to Maude The pathway of life Would be easily trod. If we all could have love like theirs here on earth; A thousand lifetimes they shared Now it’s time for rebirth. Go forth Dick to heaven Turn your face to the light We’ll see you again When it’s our turn for flight. Wow! What a pair they made. I first met Dick and Maude about 7-9 years ago when I stopped at one of their yard sales. I got out of the car and walked into the yard of a couple of people that were having a straight up fight! I thought... Fate brought us together again some months later while they were purusing the neighborhood where our shop was located - scouting it out for their own shop. As we grew closer, I realized that the "back and forth" that they shared is what kept their relationship open and alive. I read recently that couples that argue the most are the ones that stay together the longest because through that outlet, they become finely "tuned" to one another, their needs, wants and desires. I can truly say that about this relationship. You shared one in a million and not very many, NOT VERY MANY people can ever say that much less live it for twenty-nine years. I will miss much about Dick, his coffee, his smile, sense of humor, generosity, always, always, always thinking of others...can I get you some tea? Are you hungry? I have some wonderful popcorn here...here, take a couple of boxes...always telling tales of the latest grocery store escapade in which the item was free because at "certain" stores, if it doesn't scan right, it's free. Ahhh...just thinking of you makes one smile. There is (yes, is) only one Dick Kiser...always and forever in our hearts and memories...always bringing a smile - I will miss seeing your face. Maude and Zaya, I love you. Darith <hillardpcoonbody@hotmail.com> Nashville, TN USA - Monday, December 19, 2005 at 22:01:41 (EST) There are many things that I loved about this man. I loved all the great stories - I could listen to them over and over. My favorites were the stories about his first radio jobs and stories about Selma and the civil rights marches. All the stories - Dick coming by the smokeshop was always the best part of my night. I loved when I would request a song during the radio show and he would mention my name and tell me to get that stupid smile off my face. But mostly I love the way that he reminded me of my own Father who passed away a year before I started working at Uptowns. He passed away in 86 when I was 18 and I met Dick at the smokeshop in 87. His gentle ways, great smile, all the stories, the liquor on the breath [although he hadn't had a drink in the past 12 years] all reminded me of my Dad. I am not sure if I ever really told him that, maybe I did. But I think he realized it and he took it very seriously. He would offer advice when he felt I needed it and was always genuinely concerned when I was going through troubled times. I thank him for all these things and I am thankful to have been his friend. Love to Maude, Tyzayah, Jason and his family - Patrick Deal Patrick R. Deal <prdeal@bellsouth.net> Antioch, TN USA - Monday, December 19, 2005 at 00:42:31 (EST) in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.(the beatles) lawson stowe warren <lawsonwarren@aol.com> southport & asheville, nc USA - Sunday, December 18, 2005 at 07:44:02 (EST) Very nice. Talk to you soon Tom Gold <tom@tomgold.com> USA - Friday, December 16, 2005 at 22:16:27 (EST) Ms. Kiser I think this was a great idea. I'm glad you were able to get the message out about your husband. Terrell and I will keep you and your family in our prayers. The Terrell Broady F. H. family Terrell & Byrettia Broady & Family <Lleavan@aol.com> Nashville, Tn USA - Friday, December 16, 2005 at 18:56:47 (EST) It was an honor to know Dick, even though it was a very short time. Cindy Tinker <Cindy.Tinker@Vanderbilt.edu> Nashville, TN USA - Friday, December 16, 2005 at 17:59:02 (EST) Dear Maude I am so very sorry to hear of the death of your husband I am truly truly sorry Jean UK Jean Taylor <Dvdbrubeck@aol.com> Fareham, Hants \uk - Friday, December 16, 2005 at 14:00:33 (EST) Back to the Front Page