John Ellis McCartney, Jr. (“Johnny”) of Athens, Alabama passed away peacefully with his devoted wife, Ruby, by his side on January 24, 2022. Johnny’s life of service began on November 18, 1937, when he was born the only child to John Ellis and Cleon Griffin McCartney. He dedicated his formative years to his parents, developing fond memories and lifelong relationships at their McCartney Family Restaurant. Johnny proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. After returning home from war, he continued to serve others through his work with McCartney’s Meat Market, KinderCare, and First Baptist Church, among others, and volunteerism with the Athens High School Booster Club and American Legion Post 49.
Though Johnny’s life of service has ended, his legacy of service continues through his family whom he cherished and loved with all his heart. In every action, Ruby has embodied the vows she and Johnny took forty years ago, caring for Johnny until his last breath, just as he cared for others. His daughter, Rebecca Kathleen Montgomery, who carries on Johnny’s gift of storytelling, serves and comforts those most vulnerable as a labor and delivery nurse. His oldest son, William Ellis McCartney, who inherited his father’s intensity, defends those in need as an attorney. His youngest son, John Andrew McCartney, who matches Johnny’s kindness, secures employment for those seeking and mentors children as a volunteer soccer coach. His teenage grandchildren, Ace and Griffin, though just starting their journeys, already display Johnny’s selflessness in their relationships with their friends and family.
Words cannot adequately describe the pride Johnny felt for those he leaves behind.
Johnny loved the Crimson Tide, a bourbon and Coke, and a good cigar. He loved them more when sharing with family and friends. What we would do to share them with him just one more time.
Johnny was predeceased by his father, John Ellis, his mother, Cleon, and his daughter, Layne Coyne (Tim).
A visitation will be held at Spry Funeral Home in Athens, Alabama on Friday, January 28, 2022 from 6:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 29, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Athens, Alabama with internment at Limestone Memorial Garden.
The family would like to thank the nurses and staff in the G-Wing of Floyd E. “Tut” Fann State Veterans Home for the care and kindness provided to Johnny during his time there, with special thanks to Ms. Kim Drake, Ms. Yvette Veal, and Ms. Marquita Mitchell.
