John Franklin Valentine's Obituary
Branchville
Mr. John Franklin (Johnny) Valentine, 66, of Branchville, passed away unexpectedly Monday, March 16, 2026, at his home in Branchville. Johnny was born on September 14, 1959, in Bamberg, SC, to John Franklin (Mary) Valentine Sr of Roanoke, Virginia, and the late Mabris Brabham Valentine of Branchville.
He graduated from Branchville High School in 1978 and attended Georgia Tech. He was also a member of the Branchville Baptist Church. Johnny was a certified OSHA and Plumbing instructor for Home Builders Institute and was employed at Job Corps in Bamberg, SC, since 1999. He loved teaching his students; his passion was not just teaching, but equipping young minds with practical skills to succeed in their own lives.
A talented guitar player and singer, Johnny not only played music, but he felt it in his heart and soul. He was always the spotlight at family gatherings, where he graced everyone with his music while shedding happy, positive light on any situation with his unique sense of humor. He also enjoyed the simple things in life and loved every dog or cat he met.
Survivors include one sister Cheryl (Jack) Davis of Branchville; seven brothers: David (Sandy) of Moneta, VA, Clyde Mixon of Roanoke, VA; Frederick (Andrea) Stokes of Burnt Chimney, VA; Tommy (Jackie) Valentine of Miami, FL; Daniel (Lisa) Valentine of Salem, VA; Eric Valentine of Roanoke, VA; and Ashley Valentine of Roanoke, VA. Johnny was preceded in death by his sister Sandra Wright of Salem, VA. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Saving Animals Southern Style (SASS) Rescue and Sanctuary 2816 Cleveland St; Elloree, SC 29047 A memorial service will be held Thursday, March 19, 11:30 a.m., at Ott Funeral Home Chapel in Branchville, SC. Visitation with family and close friends will be held one hour before the service.
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