Johnny K. Livingston 1945-2025

On the afternoon of Tuesday, April 29, 2025, Johnny K. Livingston, 80, took his last breath on Earth and his first in Heaven.

Johnny never met a stranger and, if he did, he left them as a new friend. Always willing to share a smile with everyone he encountered; his laughter and positivity were infectious.

A proud member of Powell Valley High School’s 1965 graduating class; Johnny always loved telling the story of making bank deposits while driving the school’s car. He loved his classmates and kept in touch with many of them. After graduation, Johnny proudly joined the United States Navy, developed a strong allegiance to his country, and became an American Patriot (which he exhibited until the end of his time on Earth). While serving in the Navy during the Vietnam conflict (1965-1969), he made countless lifelong friends; especially those from the USS DeHaven DD-727. Johnny was the ship's mailman and was a very popular among the crew looking to hear from their loved ones back home. He probably knew everyone on the ship. One of his favorite sayings was, ‘Once a sailor, ALWAYS a sailor.’ Johnny could often be found swapping stories with fellow sailors and relishing in the camaraderie.

Upon leaving the military, Johnny joined the coal industry, made many friends and memories from 1969-1987. In 1987, Johnny, along with wife, Mary Alice, and daughter, Mandy, moved across the state to the Hampton Roads area where he was employed by several shipping agencies that afforded him the opportunity to meet many lifelong friends and travel the globe. Following his retirement in 2012, Johnny refused to live a quiet life and still worked part-time in the coal business until he found his true calling; helping disabled veterans. Once he joined General Anthony Wayne Chapter 58, DAV he became their biggest advocate and looked very forward to spending time with his favorite ‘comrades’ three days per week.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary Livingston, brothers-in-law, Carl George, Cecil Barnette, Earl Groseclose, and Bill Nien, and sister-in law, Shirley Cantrell.