Johnny Allen Burch, 71, of Franklin, NC, passed away on Monday, March 23, 2026. Born in Macon County to the late Junis and Anna Laura Hughes Burch, Johnny was a true native son and a one of a kind soul.

Johnny lived a life shaped by hard work, dedication to his family, and a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gemology, coin collecting, and anything to do with rocks, guns, or knives. His work ethic carried him through many years in Heating and Air, as well as time spent at Mason Mountain Rhodolite and Ruby Mine. He had a knack for finding beauty in the earth and joy in simple things.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother in law, Bud Carver, and a niece, Chelsea Oettinger.

Johnny is survived by his wife of 36 years, Sharon Burch; his children, Melissa Burch Frazier and Timothy Allen Burch (Audrea); six grandchildren, Jordan Phillips, Ariel Frazier, Stacy Caden Frazier, Tyler Allen Burch, Byron Shields, and Caleb Shields; and two great grandchildren, Macie Shields and Harrison Shields. He is also survived by six siblings: Virgil Burch (Brenda), Barbara Carver, Donald Burch (Karen), Charlie Burch (Cathy), Patricia Swafford (Rick), and Teresa Frady (Punky); his Florida family, who adored him, father-in-law, Harold Theobald (Susan), brother-in-law, Russell Theobald, sister-in-law, Diane Theobald; along with several nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 4th, from 2-3pm at Macon Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow at 3pm in the Chapel, with Rev. Ervin Ochoa and Rev. Radford Penland officiating.

Johnny will be remembered for his big personality, his love of the outdoors, and the way he made everyone laugh and made life a little more interesting for everyone around him.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.