We do not know when the call will come; someday a loving hand will be laid upon our shoulder as a sweet message is whispered in our ear, “Come Home.”  Mr. Johnny “John” Etchison, Jr., answered that call suddenly on Monday, February 15, 2021.  Facing his foe with grace, courage, dignity, and unwavering faith in God, he spent the last three years battling an implacable disease.  He will no longer be troubled or inhibited by physical or bodily limitations.  Kind, gentle, sincere, and true throughout his heart and mind; only beautiful memories he’s left behind.

John was born in Chattooga County April 10, 1938, growing up in Lyerly and Summerville, GA.  He was the son of the late Mr. Johnny Etchison, Sr. and Mrs. Luvenia Sara Elizabeth Finley Etchison.  John attended the schools of his native county.  He was a member of Thomas Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church serving as senior Deacon and of Holland Lodge No. 47, F&AM.  John had been employed by S&S Butane Gas Company for more than 64 years!  This company would serve as his first and only place of employment where he labored as a Gas Serviceman.  On this job for more than 60 years, he would do much more; he took the opportunity to teach, mentor, share spiritual knowledge, and display love to everyone he met.  Often he was the “spark” that lit things up and made things happen.  The fruits of his hard work and labor are the numerous family members, coworkers, and friends who testify their lives are better by knowing him.  He will be sincerely missed by so many.
John became an avid fisherman, gardener, and bird (chicken/quail) farmer in his spare time.  He spent a good bit of time with family and friends enjoying these hobbies that he had mastered.  He always shared what they produced with others as a token of love.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Etchison was preceded in death by three brothers, William “Bill” Etchison, Bobby Joe Etchison, and David Etchison; and two sisters, Mae Bell McDaniel and Lillie Knox.
Those left in wonderment to deplore his homegoing are sister, Ruby Adams of Lyerly, GA.  Key special family members are Lorezo Knox and his three children; niece, Denise (Tim) Rucker, her two children and grandchild; nephews, Michael (Sharlene) Jones, their two children and one grandchild, Anthony (Amanda) Adams and their five children; a long time special loving friend, Ruthie Rounsaville and her children; and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and very special friends.
Graveside and interment services for Mr. Etchison will be held at 2:30 P.M. Sunday, February 21, 2021, at Thomas Chapel Cemetery with Rev. Jonathan Moore and Rev. Todd Bryant officiating.  Active pallbearers will be grandsons and nephews.  Flower bearers will be granddaughters and nieces.
Visitation will be held privately for the family.
 
The Etchison family, along with the staff of Mason Funeral Home remind anyone in attendance to keep in mind the current guidelines and restrictions set forth by the C.D.C. as it pertains to social gatherings including social distancing, gathering limits, and face masks.
To share your condolences with the family online, please visit our website at www.masonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are provided by Mason Funeral Home- Summerville, GA.