Johnny Beaver's Obituary
Obituary for Johnny Warren Beaver
August 19, 1947 – August 18, 2025
Johnny Beaver, 77, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and quiet strength.
Sergeant Beaver served his country with honor and distinction in the United States Army, Big Red 1, during the Vietnam War in 1968. His bravery and commitment were recognized with numerous citations and medals, including the Cross of Gallantry, the Army Commendation Medal, and the National Service Medal. His service reflected the deep sense of duty and humility with which he lived every aspect of his life.
Professionally, Johnny dedicated 51 years to Schindler Elevator Corporation, where he worked across the United States and abroad in Saudi Arabia.
Johnny was also a man of deep faith and a devoted servant of the Lord. He faithfully served as both an elder (Newell Presbyterian Church) and a deacon (Bethel Presbyterian Church). His quiet leadership and servant’s heart touched many lives.
He was a loving husband to his wife, Janie, for 55 years. Johnny is survived by one sister, Norma Beaver Surratt, Rock Hill, SC. Together they were blessed with the love of several godchildren, including Kyle and Jenna Summer and their children, Brynlee and Wyatt; Kayla (Summer) Hopkins and Mike Hopkins and their son, Landon. He shared a special bond with dear friends Kerri, Joshua, Emily, and Caroline Dobi, who were like family to him. Johnny is also survived by four sisters-in-law, one brother-in-law, three nieces, seven nephews, and numerous great and great-great nieces and nephews.
Johnny was preceded in death by his father, John Monroe Beaver and his mother, Helen Plyler Beaver and brother-in-law, Frank Surratt.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at TerraBella Memory Care Unit in Mooresville, NC for their loving care during Johnny’s time there, and to the many private caregivers who provided support and affection in countless ways.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Johnny’s memory may be made to:
• Bethel Church Foundation, 19920 Bethel Church Road, Cornelius, NC 28031
• Levine & Dickson Hospice House, 11900 Vanstory Drive, Huntersville, NC 28078
Johnny’s life was a testament to faith, loyalty, and service. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A funeral service will be held at 3 PM Thursday, August 21 at Bethel Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends following in the Family Life Center.
Committal services will take place at 9 a.m., Friday, August 22 at Salisbury National Cemetery with military honors.
Arrangements are under the care of James Funeral Home in Huntersville, NC.
What’s your fondest memory of Johnny?
What’s a lesson you learned from Johnny?
Share a story where Johnny's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Johnny you’ll never forget.
How did Johnny make you smile?
