John V. Cheek Jr., age 68, passed away at his home in Franklin, North Carolina, on October 1, 2026. He was born on July 27, 1958, to the late John V. Cheek Sr. and Louise Anderson Cheek.

Johnny was a man who dedicated much of his life to serving others, but above all else, he was a family man who loved his family deeply. He proudly served with the Macon County Sheriff’s Department, where he held the rank of Sergeant. His dedication to service continued beyond his years in local law enforcement, as he also spent two years working with the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK).

Outside of his career, Johnny enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved to hunt, fish, spend time outdoors, and, most of all, spend time with his family. He had a fun loving personality and a way of making memories and telling jokes with the people he loved. His family was at the heart of his life, and the time he spent with them was among his greatest joys.

Johnny is survived by his beloved spouse, Stephaine Cheek; his children, Valerie Miller (Danny), Victoria Dunning (Matt), step children Robert Armstrong, and Hannah Marie (Houston Marshall); grandchildren, Kaylee, Payton, Raelynn, Paisleigh, and Isaiah.

He is also survived by his sisters and brother, Bonnie Watson, Jean Crane (Fred), Wanda Parrish, Linda Turpin, David Cheek (Cindy), and Janet Scott (Gary); along with numerous nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends who will forever cherish the memories they shared with him.

Johnny was preceded in death by his sisters, JoAnn Crane and Joyce Cheek, brothers- in-law Alvin Turpin, Bobby Parrish, and Bobby Watson.

Johnny will be remembered for his service, his fun-loving spirit, his love of the outdoors, and, most importantly, his unwavering love for his family. His life was filled with people he loved, places he enjoyed, and memories that will be carried forward by those who knew him best.

Though he may no longer be here to share another fishing trip, tell another story, or make another memory with his family, the love he gave them will remain forever.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, Oct. 7th from 6-8pm at Macon Funeral Home. A service will be held Thursday, Oct. 8th at 2pm in the Chapel of Macon Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Union Methodist Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Nathan McConnell, Jacob Brown, Xander Crane, Zachary Crane, Bryson Burt, and Dylan Burt. Honorary Pallbearers will be Robert Armstrong, Bryan Burt, Rick Crane, Matt Dunning, Danny Miller, Chad Parrish, and Everett Parrish.

And in the words that so perfectly express the love he had for those closest to him:

“I love you a Bushel & a Peck.”