In Memory
Johnnie Ray Lemley
Mar 28, 1944 - Apr 21, 2026
Johnnie Ray Lemley, 82, passed away at home in Elkhart on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 after a hard-fought illness. Johnnie was born March 28, 1944 in Dyersburg, Tennessee to Edwin and Sydney “Flo” Lemley. He moved to South Bend in 1959 and graduated from Washington-Clay High School in 1963. He attended IUSB as an art major before starting his own business in early 1970’s. Johnnie started AAA Appliance, moving in to the permanent location in Osceola which stood for 50 years serving the community. His successful business provided a beautiful life for himself, his wife, and his four children.
Johnnie married Nancy Lou Olson in 1965. They recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary last December. They had four children: John of Mishawaka, Todd (Sara) of Fort Wayne, Greg (John) of Niles, and Christie (Chris) Neely of Granger. Johnnie had 10 wonderful grandchildren that all adored him. He is also survived by a sister, Margie Pickens and a brother, Gary Lemley.
Johnnie had a love for old cars, specifically Corvettes and 1932’s. He owned several hot rods and Corvettes over the years. He also had a life-long love of art. As a child he wanted to change his name to “Art”. He was very creative and imaginative with his kids and his grandchildren, always coming up with fun things to do. Later, after retirement, he was able to enjoy trips to Florida with his one and only and he was able to start painting again. He did commission work and displayed his art at several art fairs and farmers markets. His art is proudly displayed in all his close friends' and family's homes. Retirement also meant golf! He enjoyed his time on the golf course with his best buddies, who were lifelong friends, and cherished these times with them.
Johnnie also had a love for the outdoors and had such pride in his beautiful lawn. He was always the first in the neighborhood with the lawn mower out and biggest wish was to be home and mow his lawn at the end of his life. He had simple pleasures and lived life with no regrets. He was well known for giving everyone the benefit of the doubt and always being giving, loving, and wore his heart on his sleeve.
A small family gathering will be held at a later date to celebrate his life. Memorial contributions can be made to the South Bend Museum of Art in Johnnie’s name to benefit local kids to cultivate their love of art. https://southbendart.org/donate
04/24/2026 EJS
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