Jearl Ben Johns, 78, of Chattahoochee, Florida, passed away on September 5, 2026. He was
born on September 28, 1948, in Sneads, Florida, and lived a life marked by faith, hard work,
and a warm, friendly spirit that touched many along the way.
Jearl was a lifelong resident of the Sneads, Florida, and Chattahoochee, Florida, area, where he
built deep roots and lasting friendships. He was a 1967 graduate of Sneads High School and
carried the values of his upbringing throughout his life. He was known as a man who loved to
work, and he took pride in staying busy, helping others, and making use of just about anything
he came across. He often described himself with a smile as, “I am the Fred Sanford of
Chattahoochee,” a reflection of both his humor and his well-known habit of collecting junk and
finding value in what others might overlook.
Jearl retired from the Florida State Hospital Security Department in April of 2011, where he
served as a Security Specialist. He was respected for his dedication and dependable nature, and
he approached his work with a strong sense of responsibility. Beyond his career, he was also
known as a master fixer of small appliances, using his hands and practical skill to repair and
restore many things. He was handy in every sense of the word, and he found satisfaction in
being able to solve problems and make things work again.
He was a Christian and was of the Holiness faith, and his beliefs were an important part of his
life. His faith helped shape the way he lived, and he was remembered for the steady, sincere
manner in which he carried himself. Those who knew him will remember his kindness, his
friendliness, and the easy way he connected with others. He had a gift for making people feel
welcome, and his presence brought comfort and familiarity to family and friends alike.
Jearl was preceded in death by his parents, Benjain Whittaker Johns and Neita Belle Brock
Johns; and his siblings, James B. Johns, Mae Belle Hurt, Pearline Thomlinson, and Doris
Arnold. He carried the memory of his loved ones with him throughout his life, and his family
ties remained an important part of who he was.
He is survived by his brothers, James F. Johns, known as Frank, John R. Johns, known as
Johnny, and Carl L. Johns and his wife Sharon. He also leaves behind forty-two nieces and
nephews, extended family members, as well as lifelong friends David Pippin and Mike Andler.
His family and friends will remember him for his steady presence, his humor, and the many
ways he showed care through both words and actions.
Jearl Ben Johns will be remembered as a friendly and handy man who lived simply, worked
hard, and loved deeply. His life reflected the values of faith, family, and perseverance, and his
memory will remain a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at McAlpin Funeral Home on Thursday, September
10, 2026. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM CENTRAL TIME, and service will be at 10:00 AM
CENTRAL TIME. Interment will be private.
Condolence Messages