Alan Richard Johns
Alan Richard Johns, 84, of Monticello, passed away January 11, 2019 at the Archway Transitional Care Center, Macon.
The oldest of 10 children, he was born April 10, 1935, to Ione and Richard H. Johns, in Toledo, Ohio. He and his nine siblings had many wonderful times growing up in the small town of Millbury, Ohio. From the very beginning he was always determined to explore and be an individual.
Alan joined the Navy, October 19, 1957 and served as an operator and electrician. He was a member of the Blue Crew on the USS George Washington, the first nuclear-powered Polaris-firing submarine, cited by The New York Herald-Tribune as “Possibly the mightiest ship of war in modern years.” Alan was onboard when it set a record of 67 days of being continuously submerged. He was based out of Scotland for months at a time.
In 1959, Alan married Rochelle Goodwin Mathiesen and immediately became the father of Rosalie and John, and was subsequently blessed with three more children; Robyn, Shane, and Shanna. He was married to Barbara Saunders of Idaho Falls, Idaho, and was step-father to Mara and eventually a companion to Linda Owen Johns.
He also loved spending time with his grandchildren Thatcher K.C., and Logan Clay Neitzel, Aislinn Caleigh Johns, and Daylon Hunter Kittell. When he relocated to Georgia, Alan enjoyed being close to his siblings and their families. He famously enjoyed babies—especially before they could talk. He enjoyed family gatherings and he was equally quick of wit, humor and opinion.
Alan explored and subsequently lived in many parts of the United States including Connecticut, Idaho, Florida, Arizona, Colorado, New Jersey, and Georgia. Throughout his life he had many different work experiences and made many wonderful friends.
He deeply enjoyed long philosophical discussions, working on his home and taking long walks to “clear his mind.” He was known often to help neighbors and family members complete projects around their homes and properties and he took great pride in his craftmanship. At the end of the day he was content with a cup of tea and any sweet that could be found!
Alan was preceded in death by his parents, Ione (Rambeau) and Richard; three brothers: Russell, Lee, and Reed; and three sons Robyn, Shane, and John.
He is survived by his siblings: brothers—Ronald, Phillip, and Kirk; sisters—Kay, Beth and Lura; daughters, Rosalie (Craig) Neitzel of Blackfoot, Idaho, and Shanna Kittell (Bryan DuFosse) of Boise, Idaho, and also but not listed are his many extended family members, whom he loved deeply.
Alan was well loved, and he knew it. Thank you to all who supported him, especially through the last leg of his journey!
The family is having a small private celebration of life, and in lieu of flowers, support of the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) are appreciated.
Jordan Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Visit its website at www.jordanfuneralhomemonticello.com.