Johnny Lynn Folks

Johnny Lynn Folks, age 79, a native of Ellisville, Mississippi and a 55-year resident of Baton Rouge, LA, passed away on September 19, 2023, following a lengthy illness.

Johnny was born to the union of his parents John Wesley David “W.D.” Folks and Pearl Estelle Folks (nee Williams) of Pittman, Mississippi.  In 1962, Johnny graduated from Murphy High School in Mobile, Alabama.  Upon graduation, he joined the Marine Corps Reserve and served for over 5 years.  

After moving to Baton Rouge in 1968, Johnny had a 32-year career at Dow Chemical Plaquemine.  He began work at Dow as an operator, quickly moved into drafting, and retired as a Project Manager.

Johnny served his church for 40 years in various ministries including Eucharistic Lay Ministry and Happening events for high school youth.  He was most widely known and loved for his participation in various music ministries including the Cursillo Community in the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana and the Church of the Holy Spirit in Baton Rouge.  He supported the first Anglican Church in Baton Rouge and served in several leadership roles there.  In his later years, Johnny was also a member of Holy Cross Anglican Church, but was inactive due to health issues.

Johnny is survived by his wife of forty years, Melissa Folks (nee Douglas), his sons Andrew Folks and Stephen Folks, a daughter Leslie Brady, his brother, Jim Folks, 3 granddaughters, 1 grandson, 2 nieces, 2 great-nephews, and many beloved cousins and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, W.D. and Estelle Folks. 

Services are set for Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at Holy Cross Anglican Church, 630 Richland Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA (on the campus of Grace Baptist Church) with visitation at 2 PM and the Service of Christian Burial at 3 PM.  Those in attendance are encouraged to sign the Guest Book.

The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to the staff of Clarity Hospice at The Crossing, Baton Rouge General Home Health and Hospice, Fr. Jarrett Fontenot, and Dr. Michael Yorek.  We are especially grateful for the assistance of special friends Slater Armstrong, Francis Gros, David Libbers, Don and Pati Rudisel, and the support of many other friends and neighbors.  

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Johnny’s name to Holy Cross Anglican Church or Clarity Hospice at The Crossing, 9191 Bluebonnet Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70810.    

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note for the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com