Johnny Elisha Kicklighter, 79, entered into eternal rest on June 3, 2026. Born on July 14, 1946, in Reidsville, he was the beloved son of the late Randolph and Lois Carpenter Kicklighter and the devoted husband of 58 years to Mary Anne Cannady Kicklighter.

Johnny was a proud father to his two sons, Jeremy Kicklighter and David Kicklighter (Shawna), and a loving Papa to his grandson, Jackson Kicklighter.

Johnny honorably served in the National Guard for six years. He dedicated 40+ years of service to TIC – The Industrial Company, where his work took him to countless places and allowed him to help build many bridges throughout his career. He was also a respected and beloved supervisor who took great pride in mentoring young marine engineers.

An avid fisherman, Johnny found great joy in spending time on the water and sharing his passion with family and friends. He especially enjoyed hosting fish fries and Lowcountry boils, creating cherished memories for those he loved.

Johnny was a faithful member of Bethany Church of Ellabell (formerly Ellabell United Methodist Church). He served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees and loved serving the Lord through many behind-the-scenes tasks that often went unnoticed. He also enjoyed organizing Sunday School gatherings and assisting with numerous church events throughout the years.

In addition to his parents, Johnny was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Tommy Cannady; his mother-in-law and stepfather-in-law, Sarah and Frank Crane; and his cousin, Nick Carpenter, who was like a brother to him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Anne Kicklighter; his sons, Jeremy Kicklighter and David Kicklighter (Shawna); his grandson, Jackson Kicklighter; his sisters, Delores Kicklighter Powell and Brenda Kicklighter Walker (Jack); his brother, Tommy Kicklighter (Sherry); his sisters-in-law, Lennie McGowan and Marilyn Page; and many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Pallbearers will be John McDowell, Mark McDowell Jr., Drew Herring, Justin Cribbs, Michael Summerford, and William Todd.

Honorary pallbearers will be his great-nephews: Will, Walker, and Cooper Summerford; Logan, Ransom, and Maverick Cribbs; David and Ashley Herring; and the Inez Smith Sunday School Class of Bethany Church of Ellabell.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Building Fund of Bethany Church of Ellabell, P.O. Box 36, Ellabell, GA 31308.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Flanders Powell Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Johnny will be remembered for his unwavering faith, strong work ethic, generous heart, and deep love for his family and friends. His legacy of service, kindness, and devotion will live on in the lives of all who knew and loved him.