Johnny Hammonds Obituary

Johnny Ray Hammonds, CHARLESTON - Johnny Ray Hammonds, 76, of Charleston, SC, entered into eternal rest Wednesday, December 7, 2022. John was born July 5, 1946, in Chadbourn, NC, son of the late Leslie "Jim" and Mamie Ruth Hammonds. He began his career in radio in 1962 at WVOE-AM radio in Chadbourn, NC, the first black owned radio station east of the Mississippi. He started out doing odd jobs at the station and within months had his own Saturday spot on air called "John's Rhythm Corner." In 1964, he graduated from Chadbourn Indian School. Shortly thereafter he enlisted in the United States Air Force. During this time, John was recognized as a great baseball/softball player at several US Air Force bases. He also worked as a DJ for the Armed Forces Network in Taiwan. John spent his entire career as a Sales Executive, first at WTOP Radio in Washington, DC, then at WBTV in Charlotte, NC, and finally Raycom Sports, where he stayed until his retirement in 2009. In 2016, John was diagnosed with esophageal cancer along with several other health issues. Throughout it all, he was always known for his beautiful smile. One of John's favorite pastimes was traveling with his wife. He loved music and working crossword puzzles with his mother-in-law, the late Sheilah Simmons. His absolute favorite pastime was watching his Carolina Panthers! He is survived by his devoted wife, Monica L. Hammonds; sister, Hilda Sugg; brother, Leslie (Virginia) Hammonds; and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 7, 2023, at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 16 Thomas Street, Charleston, SC, at 11am. The service will be livestreamed at www.saintmarkschurch.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Lung Association, www.lung.org, or the Alzheimer's Association, https://act.alz.org. Visit our guestbook at legacy.com/obituaries/charleston