Ray Franklin (Johnny) VanNess, of Lexington, Virginia, son of Helen V. Mason and Ray F. VanNess Sr., born May 27, 1944, died at age 73 on April 1, 2018.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 54 years, Jeannie Straub VanNess.

Surviving are his children, Ray F. VanNess III of Greensboro, N.C., Michael G. VanNess of Lexington, and Amanda V. Davis and husband, Daniel M. Davis, both of Buena Vista; and two grandchildren Nathan B. Davis and Ashley E. Davis, both of Buena Vista; a sister, Wanda M. Mabry of Virginia Beach; a special sister-in-law, Dorothy Rozanski of Brooklyn, N.Y., and her husband, Stanley; a special brother-in-law (son), Benjamin P. Straub and wife, Dianne of Roanoke; six nephews and one niece; a special friend/brother, Bernard Butler and Cricket Walker Northcross, both of Lexington; and special cousin, Brenda Beard Coffey.

John served as a member of the Lexington Fire Department for 10 years. He was a Virginia correctional officer in Richmond and Staunton for five years. He retired from the Rockbridge Regional Jail after 21 years of service on December 31, 2011.

His wife, children and grandchildren and dog, Pepper were the highlights of his life.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rockbridge SPCA, P. O. Box 528, Lexington, VA 24450, or the Lexington Fire Department, 708 S. Main St., Lexington, VA 24450.

A memorial service will be conducted 2 p.m. Saturday, April 7, 2018 at Harrison Funeral Chapel with Dr. Michael Wilkins officiating.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory.