06/15/2026
Johnny Ray Thompson age 62, passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on June 13, 2026 at his home, He was born November 6, 1963 in Dayton, Ohio. Johnny was a graduate of Rhea County High School. For 37 years, he faithfully worked at La-Z-Boy before entering what he affectionately called “semi-retirement,” spending the next five years serving as a custodian at Spring City Elementary School. A faithful member of Victory Baptist Church in Niota, Tennessee, he loved his church family and was devoted to serving the Lord. His faith was evident not only in his words but in the way he lived his life each day. Johnny never met a stranger and was loved by many. More than anything, he loved Jesus and sought His guidance in every aspect of his life. Sharing the Gospel was not just something he did—it was his life’s mission. Whether people wanted to hear it or not, if God placed it on his heart, he faithfully carried it out. His unwavering faith and obedience to God’s calling left a lasting impact on countless lives. Among his greatest joys were spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was known for his cherished naps in the recliner, made even sweeter when one of his grandsons was curled up asleep on his belly. Those simple moments became treasured memories that his family will hold close forever. Among his hobbies were bowling, bicycle riding and watching car shows and action movies on television. Johnny also had a fondness for Chevrolet Nova’s.
Johnny was preceded in death by his father, Johnny Max Thompson; his brother, Ronald Thompson; his father-in-law, Clay Coulter; and his stepfather, Buford Cranfield.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 41 years, Tina Thompson, who was not only his wife but his best friend and faithful partner in life. Together they built a marriage centered on God, serving as an example of love, commitment, and faith to all who knew them. He is also survived by his son, Brian Thompson and wife Jen Thompson, and their son, Bodhi; his daughter, Bridget Hughes and husband Gage Hughes, and their sons, Dawson and Jasper; his mother, Decia Cranfield; his brother, Lynn Cranfield; Johnny is also survived by his mother-in-law, Mary Coulter; his brother-in-law, Matt Coulter and wife Jamie Coulter; and his beloved nieces, Charlotte, Caroline, and Ella, along with many extended family members, friends, and loved ones whose lives were forever touched by his kindness and faith.
Though his family grieves his absence, they rejoice in the assurance that he is now home with Jesus, hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” His legacy of faith, love, kindness, and devotion to God will continue through the many lives he touched.
A celebration of his life will be held on Wednesday June 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM in the chapel of Vaughn Funeral Home with Rev. Chad Hester officiating, burial will follow in the Spring City Cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday June 17, 2026 from 12 until 2pm at Vaughn Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor his memory by sharing God’s love with others and living a life that reflects the faith he so passionately shared.
Vaughn Funeral Home, Spring City is in charge of the arrangements for Johnny Ray Thompson. Please share your words of comfort and condolences with his family at www.vaughn-funeral-home.com
