1971-2025
Johnny Lee Chatman Jr. was born June 13, 1971, to the late Ruby Smith and Johnny Lee Chatman, Sr. in Tillar, Arkansas. He departed this life December 20, 2025, in Little Rock, Arkansas, surrounded by his loving family.
He received his education from the McGehee Public School District and pursued a career in Professional Trucking Driving.
He was a Professional Truck Driver, for 32 years, and enjoyed the flexibility of being an independent contractor. He prioritized safety and timeliness when picking up and delivering loads. Johnny strived to meet the demands of the industry and is a great example of what it is to be a professional contractor. He truly represented what it meant to go above and beyond for customers, clients, and other truck drivers. Many called upon him for directions or logistics of the business, giving true meaning of a Professional Truck Driver, known to many as “Knight Rider”.
Known to family as “Michael”, you could call on for anything. Off the road, he spent time with his family and friends, watching sports, Law and Order, Chicago PD, 9-1-1, and listening to the Blues. An Avid Arkansas Razorback fan, whether it was football, basketball, or baseball; he cheered them on. It gives comfort knowing he was headed to the Razorbacks vs Fresno State game at the Simmons Arena on the day that led us to this day.
Described by many, A GOOD MAN. His wisdom, humor, and “tell it like it is” character will live in our hearts of those that knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents Johnny Lee Chatman Sr. and Ruby Smith.
He leaves to cherish his memory his son Marcevis Todd of Conway, Arkansas and his daughter Arial Brown of Little Rock, (2) brothers; Dan Chatman of Webb City, Missouri and Jermaine Chatman of Miami, Oklahoma, (1) sister Lisa Chatman of Joplin, Missouri, (4) Grandchildren; Special friends, China Allen, Tenika Washingston, Shawana Washington, Tawana Washington, a bonus mom Hazel Fletcher, a bonus brother Wilbert Austin, Jr., and a host of uncles, Aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Visitation: Friday, January 2, 2026, 3:00PM - 6:00PM Serenity Gardens Funeral Services 136 State Highway 159 Dumas, AR 71639
Funeral Service: Saturday, January 3, 2026, 10:30AM St. Andrew Missionary Baptist Church 405 Smith Loop Tillar, AR 71670
