John R. Bandy, 96, of Gallatin, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at his home. Born June 25, 1930, in the Cherry Creek Community of White County (Sparta), Tennessee, he was the son of the late Otus Sullivan Bandy and Mary Huda Simms Bandy. He leaves behind a legacy of service, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his family, country, and community.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by two infant siblings; his brothers James Smith Bandy, Robert Merrill Bandy, and Otis Gaines Bandy; and his sisters Blanche Bandy Howard, and Willie Alice Bandy Copeland.

John is survived by his loving wife of more than 56 years, Dorothy Brooks Bandy, who stood faithfully by his side and shared in life’s joys and challenges. He is also remembered by a host of nieces and a nephews, whose lives were touched by his kindness.

John grew up in Sparta and graduated from White County School with the class of 1950. He would later go on to earn his Bachelor of Science in accounting from Tennessee Polytechnical Institute in 1958, an achievement that brought him great pride.

Following a brief period working in Detroit, Michigan, John chose to serve his country, joining the United States Air Force on January 4, 1951. His service took him from San Antonio and Wichita Falls, Texas, to French Morocco in Africa and Pusan, Korea. Serving as a Senior Organizational Supply Specialist, he was known for his reliability and leadership. John was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant on December 8, 1954.

After graduating college, John embarked on a successful professional journey. He served as Auditor and Assistant Comptroller for Khun’s Big K stores until 1981, and later held the role of Auditor and Chief Accountant at Ozburn-Hessey Storage until his retirement in 1992.

John was a man of faith, devoted to his church community as a member of First Baptist Church of Hendersonville. He found fellowship and purpose through participation in the Fellowship Sunday School Class, forming lasting friendships and offering support to those around him.

In retirement, John’s generosity blossomed even further. He was known for his thoughtful spirit, always ready with a small gift for visitors. Volunteer work became his calling—he devoted countless hours to serving others, especially through disaster relief efforts, an endeavor which brought him tremendous fulfillment and pride.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate John’s life and legacy during visitation on Wednesday, August 5, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 584 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066. A funeral service officiated by Pastor Jeff Lake will take place at the same location on Thursday, August 6, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Sumner Memorial Gardens, 420 Albert Gallatin Ave, Gallatin, TN 37066, with military graveside honors provided by the United States Air Force. Pallbearers will be Mark Bandy, Jim Bandy, Tanner Greene, David Brooks, Mike Owen, and Mark Stamps.

John’s life was defined by duty, generosity, and kindness. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his legacy will remain a lasting inspiration.

Arrangements entrusted to Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Gallatin. (615) 502-0011 Online condolences can be left at www.AlexanderGallatin.com