A graveside service will be held at 3:00 pm on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at Improve Baptist Church Cemetery in Columbia for Johnny Polk, 83, of Columbia, who passed away Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at Forest General Hospital. Interment will be at Improve Baptist Church Cemetery in Columbia. Rev. Darel Daniels and Rev. Bob Kendrick will officiate the services.  Visitation will be held from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at Improve Baptist Church.

Johnny Polk, a man of quiet strength and remarkable skill, proudly served his country in the United States Army, including a notable period stationed in Berlin, Germany. After his military service, he found immense satisfaction in the craftsmanship of woodworking, and his passion for firearms extended to building intricate muzzle-loading guns. He was also exceptionally good at fixing things, a talent that served him well in his career in telecommunications. Highly adept with computers, he often fixed many for others, always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need, embodying a selfless willingness to help. Above all, he held a deep and abiding love for his family, who were the center of his world.

He was preceded in death by his Father, Olen Polk;  Mother, Gay Sylvest Polk;  Brother, Tommy  Polk; Nephews, Zaran Watts and Austin Rucker.

He is survived by his Wife of 60 years, Margaret Watts  Polk of Columbia, MS;  Son, Tony  Polk  (Faith) of Lottie, LA;  Daughter, Theresa Powell  (Scott) of Columbia, MS;  two Grandchildren, Katarina  Powell and Josh  Powell;  six Great Grandchildren, Brantley Hart, Olan Powell, Scotlyn Peak, Brynlee Powell, Blakely Powell and Knox Powell;  and a host of  nieces, nephews and friends.

Pallbearers will be Damon Watts, Chris Watts, Kenny Price, Cody Magee, John Courtney, and Doug Douglas. Honorary pallbearers will be Rudy Robbins, James Robbins, Aubrey Moree,  Ralph Tony Polk, Joey Reagan and Mike Watts.

Hathorn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Friends may sign an online guest register book at www.hathornfuneralhome.com