Johnny Lee Townsend

Johnny Lee Townsend, age 87, of Banner Elk, the Foscoe Community, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, November 11, 2023.

Johnny was born on January 31, 1936 in Watauga County, North Carolina, the son of the late Enzer Townsend and Clemmie Byrd Townsend. He was the youngest of twelve children.

Johnny was an active member of Watauga Baptist Church for the past 65 years. He served the church in many capacities including Deacon, Sunday School Teacher and Sunday School Superintendent. He was an US Army veteran.  

Johnny was an avid hunter and fisherman. You could find him in his camo scouting out the largest buck, or by the river sneaking up on the biggest fish. He had a passion for working with his hands, an expert at all things gardening and farming. He enjoyed spending time visiting with those close to him, sharing memories and stories. He loved and adored his family, but most of all he loved the Lord.

In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Shook Townsend; his nine brothers, Melvin, Fred, Vance, Robert (Bob), Mack, Ray, Floyd Glenn and Bill Townsend; two sisters, Ada Schreffler and Beulah Gregory.

Johnny is survived by one son, Kenneth Townsend and wife Lisa of Banner Elk; Granddaughter, Spencer Shuford and husband Taylor of Boone; one great-grandson, Tate Shuford, and one great granddaughter Emmie Shuford (who will arrive into this world very soon).
He is also survived by sister-in-law Rachel Townsend of Banner Elk; special cousin Jerry Welch, and many nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. in Watauga Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
The family will receive friends Tuesday, November 14, 2023 from 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in Austin & Barnes Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Watauga Baptist Church Cemetery Fund c/o Denise Greer, 368 Arvil Greer Road, Vilas, NC 28692.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at the website www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Townsend family.

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