John Allen Armes, age 84 of McQuady passed away at his home, surrounded by his family and friends on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. Johnny was the son of the late Herbert and Lillie Ree Smith Armes. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Bobby. Johnny was the apple of his mother’s eye and sidekick on the farm to his dad and older brother.
Johnny’s passion for lifelong learning in the agriculture industry began at Breckinridge County High School and continued at Western Kentucky University and the University of Kentucky. Lifelong friends made during these years gave him opportunities to collaborate with the best in the industry and stay current on the latest trends. He was always eager to try new farming techniques.
Johnny instilled in his children a love of travel, adventure, service, and spontaneity. He served his country in the Marine Corps, his church community at Corinth Baptist as an active member and former deacon, and the agriculture community by serving on numerous local, state, and national boards.
Johnny never turned down an opportunity to travel, having visited many countries and all 50 states. He was known to spontaneously gather the family for an impromptu trip if the weather prevented him from working in the fields. Work, community, travel, church, cows, and family all led to an infectious smile.
Johnny was an educator and owner of several businesses, but his passion was farming. He never met a stranger when discussing equipment, land, or livestock. While he loved to roam and explore, the road always led back to his beloved McQuady.
John is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Maura Wallis Allen Armes
Three daughters: Jennifer O’Reilly (Arnold), Shannon Tabor (Estell) both of Hardinsburg, KY and Kristi Zoller (Jeb) of Columbia, SC.
Seven incredible grandchildren: Kaitlyn Smith (Trent), Erin Piscitelli (Kendall), both of Louisville, Halie Lewis (Zach) of Germany, Cole Tabor of Jacksonville, FL, Stuart, Ree Williams and Grant Zoller of Columbia, SC; two great granddaughters: Wren Smith and Adeline Lewis. These grandchildren gave him his most prized title, Johnny Po.
Visitation will be held Friday, February 23rd, 4 – 7 PM CDT and Saturday, February 24th from 10 AM – 2 PM CDT at Corinth Baptist Church in McQuady. Funeral services will be at 2 PM CDT with burial following in the Kingswood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to Corinth Baptist Church, Breckinridge County FFA and progressive Supranuclear Palsy CurePSP Mission.