John G McMahan Jr.

John G. McMahan, Jr., “Johnny”, age 73, of Benton, Arkansas, passed away Sunday night, December 8, 2024, surrounded by family at Saline Memorial Hospital due to complications from diabetes. Born to John and Blanche McMahan on January 31, 1951, in Little Rock, Arkansas, Johnny leaves behind a legacy of resilience and cherished memories.

He is survived by his beloved daughter, Jacie Carol McMahan of Benton; a brother, Randy McMahan of Springfield, AR; and two sisters, Sandy Landers (Steve) of Little Rock and Pam O’Neal (Gary) of Hot Springs. Johnny also leaves behind a nephew, Steve Landers Jr. (Karmen) of Sarasota, FL, and a niece, Mallory Nickels (Justin) of Studio City, CA, along with five great nieces and nephews and a loving extended family and lifelong friends, including the mother of his three children, Jan Akin Savage.

Johnny is preceded in death by his parents, John G. McMahan, Sr. and Blanche Hamilton McMahan; his two sons, John G. McMahan, III “Little Johnny” and Jorre Nile Akin McMahan; and nephew, Scott A. Landers.

Johnny accepted Christ as his savior at a young age and was a lifelong member of Temple Baptist Church in Little Rock. A proud 1969 graduate of Little Rock Central High School, Johnny went to work for the Associated Press while attending LRU, now known as UALR, where he earned a B.S. in Political Science and History. After transitioning from the AP, Johnny began his professional career in automobile sales, launching Military Motors, “McMahan Auto Sales” a used car dealership in partnership with his father.

With a passion for travel, Johnny spent three weeks backpacking through Europe before starting a family, which proved invaluable when navigating a family trip with Jan, his mother, father, and sister. He also had memorable adventures in Mexico and Costa Rica with his brother Randy. Johnny and Jacie enjoyed traveling together throughout the years, exploring the Dominican Republic, skiing in Aspen, and a 15-state road trip in 2018 traveling out West.

Johnny’s love for politics was immense. He was especially proud of his role as Mayor of Bauxite from 2011 through 2014. As a municipal league member, he enjoyed the recurring events during his tenure as Mayor. He was proud to serve as an alternate delegate at the 2016 Republican National Convention. He also attended the 2017 inauguration of President Donald J. Trump with his sisters.

Johnny’s greatest legacy lies in the skills he imparted to Jacie. He taught her about mechanics, home improvement, and gardening, ensuring she was equipped and empowered with life lessons, knowledge, and confidence. Pallbearers Randy McMahan, Uriel Johnson, Steve Landers Jr., Victor Carter, and Pat Roberts.

A visitation will be held at Pinecrest Memorial Park Chapel in Alexander, AR, on Thursday, December 12, 2024 at 1:00 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Arkansas Diabetes Association (479) 464-4121.

Arrangements by A Natural State Funeral Service. Online guestbook available at www.anaturalstatefuneralservice.com