John Patrick Cheney, 62, of Columbus, entered eternal wholeness in the arms of Jesus, Thursday, June 26th, surrounded by family and close friends. His transition came only days after the twentieth anniversary of the automobile accident which left him paraplegic. While challenging, these will certainly be remembered as his most impactful years.

To know John was to love him! Throughout his life, he seldom met a stranger as even the slightest encounter with him left an impact. His ability to share stories from his unencumbered memory, play jokes fueled by his witty sense of humor or offer help by sharing his self- proclaimed vast knowledge of any subject, fueled his ability to make and keep friends forever.

He never let an opportunity to share encouragement with anyone he met slip away, especially those with obvious needs. Complaints regarding his limitations were seldom heard. Instead, he faced adversity with positivity and faith, advocating especially for the use of seatbelts, cannabis- based medicine, and against driving under the influence.

During his childhood, spent in Talbotton, GA, John was active in Boy Scouts, 4H and UMYF at Talbotton United Methodist Church, where he accepted Christ as a teen. Later in life John enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf and University of GA football. In his final years, he developed a deep interest in politics, surprising us all with his uncanny ability to remember and report all that was pertinent in local, state and national politics. His desire to support conservative values and the everyday, working family drove his strong political opinions and support.

Preceded in death by his mother, Patricia (Patsy) Alford Cheney; his father, R.L. (Bo) Cheney, Sr., John leaves to cherish his memory, brother, R.L. (Rusty) Cheney, Jr. (Joanne) of Phenix City, Al; sister, Susan Cheney Mitchell (Fred) of Columbus; niece, Morgan Cheney and nephew, Justin Cheney both of Smiths Station, AL; twin great nieces and a great- nephew, as well as extended family and friends too numerous to count.

The family wishes to thank Jason Berry, Doris Gil, Sandra Wallace and Tica Baker for the tireless, selfless care they provided John over the past several years; Dr. David Antekeier and his team of surgeons for their expertise, endless efforts and the hope they offered; the nurses, nurse- technicians and other staff at Piedmont Columbus Regional- Midtown, especially those who cared for him in his final months on the 5th and 7th Floors- East. The loving support you collectively provided John is a shining example of heart-led patient care through the practice of Medicine. Finally, the staff at Columbus Hospice allowed John to be surrounded by those who loved him most in his final days, while offering support in every possible way. You truly are angels flying too close to the ground.

The family looks forward to celebrating John’s legacy of selfless love, laughter induced by storytelling and facing life’s most arduous challenges with un-ending faith in Jesus, 5pm, Saturday, June 20th at 13101 Upatoi Lane, Columbus 31829. All who knew and loved John are invited.