John Kendall Coghlan, III

John Kendall Coghlan III

John Kendall Coghlan III, affectionately known by many as “Johnny Bugs,” passed away on July 21, 2026, at his home in Ridgeville, South Carolina. He was 64 years old.

In a way that seemed fitting for the life he lived, John passed while doing what he loved most: playing drums and jamming with friends.

John was born on September 20, 1961, in Charleston, South Carolina, and was raised in Florence, where he attended South Florence High School. He later returned to the Lowcountry. Throughout his career, he worked in radio, before finding one of his greatest professional joys working for Budweiser, a job that suited his outgoing personality and love of connecting with people.

Music wasn’t simply something he loved. It was part of who he was. An exceptional drummer, he spent countless hours behind the kit, sharing his talent, mentoring fellow musicians, and encouraging others to pursue their passion. He was also an avid collector of musical instruments and equipment and could happily spend hours talking music with anyone who shared the same love.

Outside of music, he found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He adored his late dog, Buzz, never passed up a slice of cheesecake, enjoyed capturing moments through photography, and had a special love for his Ford Mustang. If you wanted to make him smile, those were a pretty good place to start.

John was preceded in death by his father, John Coghlan Jr.

He is survived by his loving mother, Brenda McQuoid (Dozier); his daughters, Bridget Coghlan and Raven Coghlan; his grandsons, Kellen Clonan and Michael Woodward; and countless family members, friends, and fellow musicians whose lives were enriched by his kindness, encouragement, talent, and unforgettable rhythm.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no formal service. He wasn’t one for sympathy or fuss. Instead, put on your favorite song, enjoy a slice of cheesecake, give your dog an extra pat, take the long way home if you have a classic car, and remember him with a smile. He would have liked that.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring John’s memory by supporting music in your own community, whether through a local music organization, charitable music program, or by making a donation to Shriners Children’s or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.