of Lexington, TN

October 7, 1927 - July 12, 2025

Mr. Johnnie Bowen Spotts, age 97, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025 in Lexington, Tennessee. Born on October 7, 1927 in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, Johnnie was the beloved son of Helen Hill Spotts and John Owen Spotts. He was a proud graduate of Hulbert High School and Auburn University.

A man of deep faith and commitment, Johnnie served as a Baptist Deacon Emeritus and was a devoted member of his church community. His passion for aviation was lifelong, he was a highly experienced private pilot and an active member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). He also held memberships with the San Fernando Valley Radio Club and the Tennessee Delta Radio Club, where he pursued his interest in HAM radio operation. Johnnie had a distinguished career in aviation and industry, working with Southern Airways, Winnebago, Fluor Corporation, Penn Corp and Peterson Aviation. Among his many accomplishments, he served as a private pilot for the legendary Frank Sinatra.

Johnnie will be remembered not only for his professional achievements, but for his integrity, warmth and unwavering devotion to his family and faith.

He is survived by his six children: Adelle Taylor (Larry), Donna Burns, Howard Spotts (Kathy), Karen Rodriguez, Curtis Spotts and Linda Schiffner (David); grandchildren: Joy Pierce (Mike), Cody Taylor (Sarah), Casey Taylor (Andie), Brandon Burns, Payton Burns (Katie), Alisha Long (Jeremy), Jonathan Spotts (Kellyn), Cory Spotts (Claire), Savannah Schiffner, Jordan Schiffner and Anna Rodriguez and great-grandchildren: Nick Lee, Hunter Long, Beau Long, Caysen Taylor, Mary Taylor, Rylee Burns, John Luke Burns, Alice Spotts, Alyse Spotts, Amelia Spotts, Elizabeth Spotts and Owen Spotts.

Johnnie was preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Joyce Evelyn Davis.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Johnnie's memory to the AOPA Foundation or Make-a-Pilot.org both supporting future generations of aviation, the Gideons International or the charity of your choice.

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