John Franklin Townley, age 89 of Birmingham passed away Sunday, September 4, 2016. He was a Merchant Marine during World War II and retired from Alabama Gas Corporation after 42 years of service. Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Frances Townley; daughter, Janice Rhodes; granddaughters: Deidre Sweatman, Kacey Matthews and Lindsey Rhodes; and five great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Patricia Matthews and son, Jim Clark. His graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, September 8, 2016 at Elmwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home. Arrangements under the direction of Johns-Ridout's Mortuary-Elmwood Chapel, Birmingham, AL.
