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BORN
1950
DIED
2025
Johnny Sowell Obituary
Johnny Sharp Sowell passed away on March 21, 2025 surrounded by his family and loyal Golden Retriever Luci at his side. Johnny was a beloved husband, father and friend, remembered for his adventurous spirit, kind heart, and great sense of humor.
Born February 14, 1950 in Corinth, Johnny's childhood was filled with adventures, much like those of Tom Sawyer. His curiosity and mischievous nature created countless memories and stories. In 1965, Johnny moved to Memphis, Tenn., with his mother and stepfather, where he attended Overton High School and made lifelong friendships.
Johnny was employed by the City of Memphis Parks & Recreation Department for 27 years. His love of sports prepared him for his dream job as football operations manager for the Liberty Bowl Stadium where he was present for many legendary football games and concert events.
After retirement, Johnny embraced his love for travel and sports. His retirement years were filled with vacations. Cruises to the Caribbean and Mexico, beach vacations to Florida, desert adventures to Palm Springs and Sedona and many golf trips to Biloxi with his golf buddies.
Johnny's family and friends will always remember him for his generosity, playfulness and the deep love for his family. He is survived by his wife Deanna, son Adam, daughter Courtney, grandchildren Ryan, Hollie and Justin, great granddaughter Kinsley, sisters Nita Sue Ashcraft and Linda Childers, as well as dear cousins, nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of friends who considered him family.
He is predeceased by his beloved daughter Mallory, and parents Robert and Faye Lawrence.
A celebration of Johnny's life will be held April 5, 2025 at 11 a.m., at The Great Hall, 1900 S. Germantown Road, Germantown, Tennessee.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Johnny Sowell
5 Entries
Michael A Donnell
May 6, 2025
Johnny was a great boss, worked for him for over 25 years doing Security at Liberty Bowl Stadium. Great friend and mentor as well. You will be missed. God got a great Angel
Don Seago
April 16, 2025
R.I.P.Johnny. You were taken way before your time. Your in good hands now and will be a great addition to Heaven. Until we meet again. Don
Andrew Bettis
April 15, 2025
I am very sorry and saddened to hear of Johnny´s passing. He was always so nice and complementary of me. He always had a smile on his face and enjoyed having fun with his friends. Johnny will be sorely missed by all who knew him. My sincere condolences to his family.
Don Seago
March 27, 2025
Johnny was a friend going back to the late 50sv - early 60s at the old YMCA. We are thr same age born in 1950. When Johnny move to Memphis in 1965 I lost contact. When I joined the Irene Golf Club renewed our friendship but played in different groups. He is a great guy and fun to be around. He told me 8 years ago he was the living the dream in retirement. RIP Johnny.
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