Johnny Porter

Johnny Porter, age 67, of Bruin, Kentucky, passed away on May 30th, 2025. Born on June 21, 1957, Johnny was the youngest of seven sisters and the beloved son of Charles and Liddia Porter. He was a faithful husband of 47 years and 10 months to Diane Porter, a tough yet loving father to Jonathan and Renea, and a cherished papaw to Brayden, Laney, and Ethan. Johnny was a hardworking and honest man through and through. As a teenager, he worked on semi trucks and helped on the family farm. As an adult, he spent years as a truck driver before entering the coal industry, where he would eventually own and operate several coal companies. Known for his no-nonsense approach and fair leadership, he was deeply respected by those who worked with him. Even after losing his vision in 1995, Johnny never let obstacles keep him down. He continued raising tobacco on the farm, a testament to his unmatched work ethic and grit. Johnny had a knack for finding good deals at auctions, but his favorite pastime was betting on the horses. He spent many joyful days at the racetrack with his friends, laughing and placing bets on the ponies. Whether you were a lifelong friend, a neighbor, or a stranger passing through, if you needed help, Johnny was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back. His generosity knew no bounds. He was straightforward, strong-minded, and devoted to his family. The love and support he gave his children, the unwavering commitment he showed his wife, and the wisdom he passed on will be honored and remembered always. Johnny was a man of integrity and intelligence, who left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Johnny is survived by his wife, Diane Porter; his children, Jonathan (Kristin) Porter and Renea (Barry) Porter-Dickerson; and his grandchildren, Brayden (Brooke) Porter, Laney Porter, and Ethan Harrod. He also leaves behind many dear friends and extended family members who will miss him deeply. Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 03, 2025 at Whitt & Sons Memorial Chapel with Bro. Michael Lewis and Elder Tim Porter officiating. Burial will follow at Elliott County Memory Gardens. Friends may call after 6:00 p.m. Monday, June 02, 2025, at Whitt & Sons Funeral Home 1260 North Ky 7 Sandy Hook, Kentucky 41171, Masonic Rites will be held at 7:00 p.m. by Hepburn Masonic Lodge #576 F & AM, visitation after 10:00 a.m. Tuesday until the service hour at the funeral home. We find comfort in knowing that Dad’s legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the memories we will carry in our hearts forever. Serving as pallbearers are Gobel Skaggs, Shane Fannin, Brayden Porter, Barry Dickerson, Mitchell Sturgill, Jerry Sturgill, Ethan Harrod. Serving as honorary pallbearers are Dwight Whitley, Ron Harris, Michael Lewis, Ronnie Copley, Kyle Fannin, Johnny Will Lewis, Joe Castle, Charles Skaggs.

Johnny Porter

June 21, 1957 - May 30, 2025