Stephen Chandler Johns Jr

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Stephen Chandler Johns, Jr., known to all as Chandler, passed away on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, surrounded by the love of friends and family after a lifelong battle with heart disease at the age of 43. Born on May 4, 1982, in Cookeville, Chandler lived a life marked by strong faith, contagious humor, unwavering kindness, and a fierce love for his family and friends.

A 2000 graduate of Cookeville High School and a proud alumnus of Tennessee Tech University, Chandler was a steady and dependable presence and the way he lived left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.

Chandler was a man of strong Christian faith and a member of The River Community Church. His beliefs were evident in how he treated people—with humility, compassion, and joy. He was kind to everyone, always quick with a joke, and had a rare gift for making others feel at ease. His sense of humor—sharp, playful, and never unkind—brought light into every room he entered.

He loved life’s simple joys: a sunny day on the lake, holidays surrounded by family, UT football, a good movie, and time spent cheering on his son, A.J., on the soccer field. A devoted Star Wars enthusiast, Chandler could quote every line and never hesitated to share his love of the saga with others. He loved music and wasn’t shy about singing along, whether at concerts or in the car. Chandler had a performer’s spirit and a heart that never tired of bringing joy to others.

He was a devoted husband to Amanda, whom he married on December 8, 2018. Together, they built a life centered on love, laughter, and mutual support. Chandler took immense pride in being a dad to A.J.—watching him grow, encouraging him, and delighting in the bond they shared over sports, humor, and movies.

To his nieces and nephews, “Unc Cha” was more than an uncle—he was a hero, a playmate, and a source of endless fun and encouragement. He remembered birthdays, celebrated milestones, and showed up with a big heart and an even bigger smile. He leaves behind a legacy of generosity, humor, and gentle strength that will ripple through generations.

Chandler is survived by his loving wife Amanda; his cherished son A.J.; his parents, Drs. Stephen and Mary Johns; his brother Dr. Andrew (Casey) Johns of Louisville, CO; his sisters Mary Jennifer (Bart) Dunlap of Rock Island, TN, and Alicia (Chad) Upchurch of Cookeville, TN; eleven adoring nieces and nephews; and his in-laws Scott (April) Ebersole and Sharon (William) Cole.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Eugene J. Johns Sr. & Dorothy “Dot” Fulton Johns, Alard C. Harding & Mary “Lovey” Weyenberg Harding.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 21, from 5-8 PM at the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home and again on Thursday, May 22, from 1-3 PM at the River Community Church. A Memorial Service officiated by Bro. TJ Overstreet, will be held following the visitation on Thursday at 3 PM.

Honorary Pallbearers will include Brandon Gross, Tyler Gaw, Tony Blanchard, Jason Johns, Bryan Johns, Andrew Ebersole, Daniel Ebersole, Chris Burris. Tomi Robb and Bret Lynn.

Chandler Johns lived a life that overflowed with love, laughter, and strong faith. He made people feel seen. He made people laugh. And most of all, he made people feel loved. He will be deeply missed and joyfully remembered.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made at Wilson Bank and Trust to AJ's education account. Contributions can be made by contacting the bank at (931)528-4928. Donations can also be made to Mended Little Hearts of the Upper Cumberland at https://themendedhearts.harnessgiving.org/campaigns/18289 or to the gofundme account honoring Chandler's life at https://gofund.me/b17aa7ff

Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share condolences and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.