Ernie Johns Life ‘Made a Positive Impact’ on Rutherford County
When I was around 27 or 28 years old, I vividly remember asking Sally Walls, whom I considered a mentor, about the late Mr. Ernie Johns.
Growing up next door to Sally, I had always admired her remarkable career as the first female police chief in Tennessee. A true trailblazer, her insights carried significant weight, especially when she spoke of Ernie, who was member of the Rutherford County Commission at the time.
Sally described him as “his own man—he’s no one’s ‘yes man.’” Her words resonated with me, capturing the core of Ernie’s character. Inspired, I decided to reach out to him and invite him for coffee (Oddly enough, I still recall his phone number). We met at Hardee’s restaurant in Smyrna, and what began as a simple meeting quickly turned into a friendship.
During our conversations, I learned of the depth of Ernie’s knowledge and passion for the community. He had a reserved nature—but he held a wealth of experience and country wisdom. I will always appreciate the time we spent discussing the history of Rutherford County—‘the good, the bad and sometimes the ugly.’
I often watched the county commission meetings on the government television channel, impressed by Ernie’s sound reasoning and common-sense logic. Through his quiet demeanor, I learned a great deal about local history—an area where Rutherford County truly excels.
Ernie was committed to preserving and advancing our county’s rich heritage. He took every opportunity to highlight the history of our county, ensuring that the stories of those who came before us were not forgotten. His dedication earned him remarkable honors—including our community naming a portion of Jefferson Pike after him—a fitting tribute to his contributions and the impact he had on our community.
A Life Rooted in Local History
Ernie was born on October 14, 1934, in the Spring Creek community of Lamar, Ernie Johns grew up immersed in local history.
As the son of Andrew Franklin Johns and Mary Frances King, he was raised in Liberty Hill, an historic antebellum home on Old Jefferson Pike.The home served as both a Civil War hospital and it overlooked one of the tragic routes of the Trail of Tears as Native Americans were forcibly relocated westward.
The home’s historical significance extended into the Reconstruction era, as Sampson Keeble, Tennessee’s first Black state legislator and a Republican, would have traveled
His service to country began through the Air Force ROTC program (1956-1959), where he received flight training. During his military service at Malden Air Base in Missouri, he met Mary Lou McIntosh, beginning a 57-year marriage that he would later describe as “the best decision he ever made.”
Professional Life and Public Service
For 40 years, Ernie operated E.K. Johns Construction in Smyrna, where he demonstrated exceptional expertise in stone and masonry work. His public service included:
– Two terms on the Rutherford County Commission
– One term on the Tennessee Historical Commission
– Chairmanship of the county steering committee for future growth and development
– Longtime membership in the Rutherford County Historical Society (since 1969)
Historical Preservation and Community Impact
Ernie’s contributions to historical preservation were remarkable:
– Created one of the country’s finest cemetery documentation catalogs
– Conducted extensive research on county landmarks
– Amassed a significant collection of historical photographs and artifacts
– Built a private library room housing an extensive collection of historical books
– Supported historical societies throughout Tennessee
– Volunteered at the Sam Davis Home, where his stone-working demonstrations became legendary
Legacy in County Development
As a county commissioner, Ernie left an indelible mark through his:
– Advocacy for education and school construction, particularly in the county’s northern section
– Support for responsible development practices
– Instrumental role in initiating the widening of Jefferson Pike
– Conservative and thoughtful approach to public service
Personal Character
Those who knew him remember Ernie as:
– A true Southern gentleman whose handshake was his bond
– A quiet but effective preservationist who never sought praise
– A generous community member known for sharing vegetables from his garden
– A mentor and friend to many in public service
– Someone who “loved Rutherford County from the first day of my life”
The naming of a portion of Jefferson Pike in his honor, with the sign placed in front of his home, stands as a fitting tribute 
Ernie passed away at age 81, leaving behind a legacy of public service, historical preservation, and community development that continues to influence Rutherford County today. His life exemplifies the impact one dedicated individual can have on preserving and shaping their community’s future while honoring its past.