Jeffrey Johns

Jeffrey Johns, 71, passed away the morning of June 4th, 2026.

Born in Kokomo, Indiana to Jack and Greta Johns, Jeff grew up playing basketball and baseball in the small farm town of Hobbs. He went on to study business at Indiana University, where he became a proud and lifelong Hoosier fan. It was during this time he met Terri Theil of Indianapolis, who would become his wife of 47 years.

After spending time in Dallas, Jeff and Terri relocated to central Florida, and in 1982 made Winter Haven their home, where they raised three children, Justin, Jeremy, and Tricia, and became deeply rooted in the community.

Jeff was the founder and CEO of Southpoint Distributing, a trucking company headquartered in Winter Haven. A true family-owned business, Jeff – alongside his father, Jack, and brother, Doug – grew the company into an operation with nearly 400 employees, primarily providing dedicated distribution services for Publix Supermarkets. Built on relationships, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to its people, Southpoint became one of the area’s most respected transportation and logistics companies.

He channeled that same dedication into his family and community. Jeff coached all three of his children in basketball and baseball, served on the Board of Directors for Winter Haven Youth Basketball, coached the nationally competitive Southpoint Shooters travel team, and proudly sponsored the annual Southpoint Shootout high school basketball tournament. He also served as Committee Chairman for the Boy Scouts of America.

Jeff was a long-time member of Beymer Memorial United Methodist Church, where he previously served on Staff-Parish and as Chairman of the Finance Committee. His generosity extended quietly in many directions; he and Terri were long-time donors to the Christian Children's Fund and were passionate supporters of animal welfare.

As much as Jeff was admired for his work ethic and generosity, he was equally known for his quick wit and sharp sense of humor. He was most at home on the sidelines of a basketball court, in a late-night card game of Euchre, or on the golf course with his sons. Together, the family cherished summers on Hilton Head Island, made frequent visits with extended family in Indiana, and attended countless sporting events, including the recent Indiana Hoosiers’ victory in the 2026 College Football National Championship.

Jeff's fandom and support extended beyond IU to the University of Florida - the alma mater of his three children - where he and his family have spent more than two decades cheering on the Gators and giving back through the Bull Gator program.

To his six beloved grandchildren - Everett, Nolan, Scarlett, Jack, Rooney, and Davis - Jeff passes along a love of sports, a competitive spirit, and above all, an example of what it looks like to show up completely for the people you love.

A memorial service celebrating Jeff's life will be held on Saturday, June 27th, at 11:00 a.m. at Beymer Memorial United Methodist Church in Winter Haven, with a reception to follow. Instead of flowers, the family encourages donations to the www.nationalmssociety.org or secure.aspca.org