Johnnie Wilson Beamer

Johnnie Wilson Beamer, age 81, of Independence, Virginia passed away at his home on the evening of November 1, 2026. He was born on December 26, 1945, in Galax, Virginia to Wilson and Bertha Sizemore Beamer. He attended several schools in the area but graduated from Woodlawn High School in 1964. He served in the United States Air Force from 1965 – 1969. He was stationed at Tiachung, Taiwan during his military experience. Following his military service, he began driving for Trailways Bus Lines and several local trucking companies running from coast to coast with his favorite weekly run being to Lorado, Texas. Johnnie was a human GPS. It didn’t matter where Ann was lost, a quick call to Johnnie and he would direct her home. At the age of 78, and millions of miles later, he got mad and quit; ending his working years without ever retiring; he quit! In his final years, he spent time with John Wayne, The Rifleman, Festus, and Maverick all from the comforts of his recliner in the living room. He was a dedicated great-grandfather, to 4-year-old, Raylynn, who treasured every minute with him. He was a member of the Grayson County V.F.W. Post #7726.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his parents-in-law, Ralph and Clarice Ward and his childhood friend, Fred Carcio.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Anne Taylor-Beamer of the home; sons, Jon (Michelle) Beamer of Haymarket, VA, and Eric Beamer of Phoenix, Arizona; daughter, Nicole Beamer of Chandler, Arizona; bonus son, Avery and Kim Taylor of Victoria, British Columbia; bonus daughter, Tara and Roger Bobbitt of Independence, VA; seven grandchildren, Glenn Bobbitt (Cora), Bret Bobbitt, Taya Bobbitt (Bryce), Thomas Beamer, Jr. Beamer, Olivia Taylor, and Townes Taylor; four great-grandchildren, Raylynn and Aidranna Bobbitt, Benji Edwards, Bentlee Ricco Beamer Edwards (Born Nov. 2, 2026); sisters and brother-in-law, Sue and Dr. Jim Patterson of Roanoke; Mary Sue and Tommy Ward; brother-in-law, Charles and Glenda Ward; childhood friend, Ellis and Pat Lineberry; and driving buddy, Terry Davis.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date at this website and inurnment will follow in the Veteran’s Cemetery in Dublin, Virginia.

The family would like to thank Medi Home Hospice for their kind and supportive care during Johnnie’s sickness.

The family suggest that memorial contributions be made to Grayson County V.F.W. Post # 7726 PO BOX 608 Independence, Virginia 24348.

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home in Independence, VA is serving the Beamer family.