Johnny Oran Utley, age 82, passed away October 30, 2026, in Jackson, Tennessee. He was born January 29, 1944, in Lexington, Tennessee, to the late Oran and Helen Olene Anderson Utley.
Johnny retired from the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), where he devoted his entire working career. He was proud of his years of service and was known as a respected and dependable man.
Johnny had a tender heart and a generous spirit. He was the kind of person who would help anyone in need, never hesitating to lend a hand. He was highly respected and deeply loved by those who knew him. His family meant everything to him, and he spent much of his life caring for his beloved mother. He also dearly loved his sister, Debbie.
One of Johnny’s greatest joys was being there for his nephews. He took great pride in Cory and Clay, stepping in as a father figure and always offering encouragement, guidance, and support. He was incredibly proud of them and loved nothing more than seeing them do well. His love extended to his great-nephews, Mason and Reid, who brought him much happiness.
Johnny had a lifelong love of automobiles, especially Chevrolet cars. In his younger days, he enjoyed fast cars, and that passion never faded. He was also a devoted Elvis Presley fan and a loyal St. Louis Cardinals supporter. One of his favorite traditions was the annual trip with his high school friends to watch the Cardinals play, creating memories and friendships he treasured.
Above all, Johnny will be remembered for his kind heart, his generosity, his devotion to family, and the quiet, steady way he showed his love for others. His presence will be greatly missed, but the many lives he touched will forever carry the memory of his love and kindness.
He is survived by his two nephews, Cory Pipkin (Melissa) and Clay Pipkin; two great-nephews, Mason and Reid Pipkin; and his close friend, Cathy Bailey.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Debbie Utley Pipkin.
Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Independence Cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Pafford Funeral Home in Lexington. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
