Johnny Ray Kindred

Johnny Ray Kindred, 52, of Decatur, Alabama, passed away on April 2, 2026. Born on December 1, 1973, in Oakridge, Tennessee, Johnny lived a life filled with faith, love for his family and friends, and a deep connection to his roots.

Johnny was the son of Ronnie Kindred of Westel, TN and the late Linda Gayle Fogg of Rockwood, TN. He is survived by his father Ronnie Kindred (Zonia) of Westel, TN, his devoted siblings Becky Fogg Romine (Richard) of Elkmont, AL, Walton "James" Shelley Jr. (Crystal) of Kingston, TN, Montana Stienke (Calon) of Huntsville, AL, Wyatt Moore (McKenzie) of Hartselle, AL, Jenny Kindred Wright (R.D.), and Albert Kindred (Elizabeth) both of Westel, TN. Johnny was also cherished by his nieces Michelle Bond, Shelby Bond, Emily Shelley, and Harlynn Grace Steinke; and a new nephew Walker Bo Moore; and his beloved uncle Tony Fogg. He shared a special bond with his dear friends "Daddy" Doug Price, Larry Carter, Tommy Cook and the EM&S Group Home community of Decatur, AL (Enriching Lives, Motivating Hearts & Shaping Lives). Johnny was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Kenneth and Virginia Kindred of Westel, TN; maternal grandparents James and Peggy Fogg of Rockwood, TN & Muscle Shoals, AL; mother Linda Gayle Fogg of Muscle Shoals, AL & Rockwood, TN; stepfathers Walton James Shelley Sr. of Rockwood, TN and James Moore of Muscle Shoals, AL.

Johnny had special needs and a diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy, but he did not let his disabilities stop him from learning and understanding the things he enjoyed in life. Johnny was a mastermind of classic country music, memorizing phone numbers and the birthdates and deaths of loved ones and friends. Johnny’s life was enriched by his many passions. A proud Tennessean at heart, he loved classic country music and cheering for Tennessee football. His fondness for “The Dukes of Hazzard” reflected his appreciation for simple joys and timeless entertainment. Johnny found happiness in life’s small pleasures—chugging ice-cold drinks or enjoying chocolate and vanilla milkshakes. He enjoyed dining out, especially at Cracker Barrel, Captain D's, Burger King, and Red Lobster.

A man of strong faith in Jesus Christ, Johnny embraced and showed the love of Jesus and believed deeply in salvation through grace. Johnny had agape love and loved hard and big no matter what, no matter who you were or what you did. He found comfort in singing hymns and worshiping with a heart full of gratitude for God’s blessings. His devotion to honoring family extended to visiting Tennessee to place flowers on the graves of loved ones—a testament to his enduring respect for those who came before him.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, April 8, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Evans Mortuary. Funeral services will follow on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Evans Mortuary with service to be led by Walton "James" Shelley Jr. and officiant Nathan Basler. Graveside services and interment will be held Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. (E.D.T.) in the Oak Grove Cemetery in Rockwood, Tennessee. Johnny’s memory will be celebrated not only through the stories shared by those who knew him but also through a special tribute to one of his greatest loves: Tennessee. In honor of Johnny’s vibrant spirit and unwavering pride in his home state, attendees are encouraged to wear orange and white or black as a symbol of remembrance. May Johnny Ray Kindred’s legacy of faith, love for family, and joy in life’s simple pleasures bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know him. Evans Mortuary of Rockwood, Tennessee is honored to serve the family of Johnny Ray Kindred.