Johnny D. Ethridge Sr., 76, of Valdese, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at UNC Blue Ridge following a brief illness.

Johnny was born July 6, 1949 in Burke County to the late John Ethridge and Eva M. Lowman. He worked as a truck driver and enjoyed fishing, golfing, and watching westerns and baseball.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Linda Smart Ethridge; daughter, Christie Ethridge Holland; and son, Johnny “Bo” Ethridge Jr.

Johnny is survived by his children, Cindy Bolick (David) of Drexel, and Joshua Ethridge of South Carolina; and eight grandchildren, Tiffany Wilson (Jeff), Tony Holland, Trey Justice (Whitney), Charity Holland (TC), Linzi Justice (Dylan), Jonathan Ethridge, Amber Frazier, and Hannah Ethridge; fourteen great-grandchildren; and two great great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his brothers, Roger Ethridge (Ruth), James Ethridge (Leslie), and Paul Ethridge (Louise); sisters, Mary Ethridge, and Aleta Turner; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 11:00 AM in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service with Pastor David Cassida officiating. Military honors will be provided by the North Carolina Army National Guard.

Interment will follow at North Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.

The family will receive friends prior to the service on Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Heritage Funeral Service.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory in Valdese is assisting the family.