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John Johnson Obituary
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John is survived by his loving wife, Judy (Henry) Johnson; children, Keith Franklin and Christy Thornton (Reed); grandchildren, Shane Franklin (Sarah) and Chloe Thornton; great-grandchildren, Arora and Rosie Franklin. He is also survived by many brother and sister-in-laws and their children that he loved so dearly.
John was born April 15, 1951 and was a graduate of John Overton High School. He lived a life dedicated to public service, his friends, and his family. A proud veteran of the Metro Nashville Police Department. serving 30 years, earning respect and admiration for his unwavering commitment to his work and community. In addition to his work in law enforcement, John had a unique role as a traffic reporter for Y107 FM with the handle Buck Naked. His unmistakable voice and keen awareness of local roads made him a familiar presence to listeners for many years.
Even after retiring from MNPD, his sense of duty never waned. John spent many years as a traffic patrolman overseeing other retired as well as current officers with the same level of attention and care that defined his entire career. He was a respected leader known for his work ethic, generosity, kindness, and mentorship. His commitment to these things left an indelible mark and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, November 25th, from 4-6pm at Launchpoint Church, 337 West Baddour Pkwy B, Lebanon, TN 37087.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Sharon Murphy
November 19, 2024
Dear Judy and Christie we are so sad for your loss. We have such great memories together. What fun times with marching band, winter guard and boating. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love The Murphys
Mary Goldsberry
November 18, 2024
Judy, so very sorry for your loss of JR. Don always enjoyed working with and being friends with him. They always had old stories to share and laugh about. I will be keeping you and family in my thoughts.
Mary Goldsberry
William Aron Poindexter
November 18, 2024
I am devastated this morning to learn of the passing of my good buddy JR.
I met JR only a year ago while he was heading security at a commercial property my company is working on, and even in that short time he has left a lasting impression.
The first time I met JR was when I was trying to pass through a gate that he had been charged with securing and I could tell right away, he was sizing me up and doing a pretty good job of it.
It was clear right away that he was a man that took pride in his work, and enjoyed what he did.
I had no idea then that I would spend so many hours talking with JR and getting to know him, and hearing some of the amazing stories that were part of his extraordinary life.
No one can spin a yarn like Old JR and boy did have some good ones to tell.
I feel so fortunate to have been able to meet JR while he was here on this earth. He had such a comforting manner about him and a kind heart. Always good for a laugh but didn't take any guff. Very rarely, will you meet a man of that caliber and depth of character with such a rich life to have lead.
The world was blessed to have him in it and I was blessed to have had the chance to know him.
My heart goes out to his family and friends in this time. God bless you all and thank you so much for sharing JR with us. Salt of the earth. Love you buddy.
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