Mr. John Miles Porter, known as Johnny to family and friends, died Sunday, Jan. 30, 2022, at the age of 70. Born Jan. 18, 1952, in Nassawadox and raised in Saxis, he was the son of the late John Porter and the late Juanita Miles Porter.
Following high school, Johnny enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard and continued to serve his country for nearly 21 years. In 1970, he began driving a truck for Holly Farms, now Tyson Foods, retiring after 43 years. Johnny always knew how to have a good time, which often came with a few jokes and lots of laughs. He was a longtime member of the Onancock Elks Lodge No. 1766, a diehard Baltimore Ravens Fan, and looked forward to NASCAR Sundays. Johnny’s sly grin and loud chuckle were trademarks of his personality, both of which were well known and will be missed by all, especially among his friends at the Elks and Club Car. He wouldn’t want a bunch of tears and sadness, but he’d expect everyone to gather to share their favorite “Johnny story” while enjoying a cold Natty Light in his honor.
Johnny is survived by his daughter, Amy Porter Leighton, and her husband, Roland; grandsons, Joshua Aaron Taylor and his wife, Ashley, Trevor Miles Drummond, and Nicholas Chase Drummond; brother-in-law, Jimmy Taylor; and nieces, Amy Coffey and Jami Dizon, and their families. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wives, Jean Elaine Porter and Anne Fitchett Porter; his sister, Susan Taylor; nephews, Jeffrey and Jonathan Coffey; and his dog and faithful sidekick, Susie.
A graveside service will be held Friday, Feb. 25, at 3 p.m., at the John W. Taylor Cemetery in Temperanceville, with the Rev. Tommy Kellam officiating. A reception and celebration of Johnny’s life will follow at the Onancock Elks Lodge in Accomac. In honor of Johnny’s love for a good pair of blue jeans, casual attire is requested.
Contributions in Johnny’s memory may be made to the Onancock Elks Medical Fund, P.O. Box 219, Accomac, VA 23301.
Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.
