Johnny Carl Beasley

Johnny Carl Beasley, 74 passed away on the morning of Sunday, April 15 just as his church was praying for him. By his side were his loving wife and two daughters. He passed peacefully into the loving arms of Jesus after a courageous battle with cancer, never doubting for a moment his life was in the hands of his Lord and Savior. Born May 13, 1943 he spent his life in Beals/Baskett/ Henderson. Johnny was a man of fierce faith and loyalty to his church and family, he never met a stranger and took great joy in being a servant to God. Johnny is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Georgia, devoted daughter, Carla (Ray) Harding, faithful son, Ricky Vandiver and grateful daughter by marriage Crystal Vandiver; three loving grandchildren, Shelby, Sarah and George Harding of Sarasota, Florida; his sisters Marie Gooch (Bill), Georgia Ann Glassco (Bob), Donna Winthrop of Michigan, brother and friend, Jimmy (Judy) Beasley, his brothers in law, Ralph Bridges (Faye), Aubrey "Butch" Williams (Faye), Steven Williams (Joni) and a large and loving extended family of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and members of his Church family. He deeply loved them all and was loved by so many. He was predeceased by his beloved parents, Savanah and Carl Beasley, and sister Barbara Jean Bridges.  We would like to extend our gratitude to Marge Pohl as his kind and gentle caregiver, St. Anthonys Hospice for providing comfort and care, and Zion Baptist Church for their outpouring of love, selfless acts of kindness and providing both food and fellowship throughout this journey.  Johnny supported his family in the logging business and was a life-long member of the Elks BPOE #206 where he was known for his Friday night fish fries! After retirement, he relished his role as caretaker of his church and warrior for Christ, serving wherever needed. Never idle, Johnny was devoted to his church life, and was active in too many roles to list - head usher, greeter, XYZ member, preparer of countless meals and renowned for his bean soup which he made each year for Red Banks towers residents. While his burgoo and barbeque were favorites, his smoked ribs won #1 in Ireland's Memphis in May competition - a crowning achievement! In the last ten plus years, his mission moved from barbeque to church missions, weekly trips to the Good News Jail & Prison Ministry, serving on board at the Harbor House, serving at the Answer Center, as well as visiting others and fellowship with his church members. Johnny always found time for his family and friends; and was especially devoted to three grandchildren with frequent calls and visits to Florida.    Johnny leaves us amazing memories, a legacy of love and will live in our hearts forever!  Relatives and friends are invited for visitation at Tomblinson Funeral Home on Thursday, April 19 from 4- 8, and visitation at Zion Baptist Church on Friday, April 20 between 9 - 11. Funeral services will be held at Zion Baptist Church on Friday, April 20 at 11:00 with the burial at Baskett Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his honor to one of his favorite ministries: Zion Baptist Church Missions Ministry, The Good News Jail and Prison Ministry, The Answer Center, The Harbor House, or St. Anthony's Hospice.  Online condolences can be made at www.tomblinsonfuneralhome.com.