Johnny Wayne Bellar, age 71, of Ashland City, Tennessee, passed away on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Riverview Post Acute in Ashland City, Tennessee. He was born on May 18, 1955, in Springfield, Tennessee, to the late Johnnie E. Bellar and Martha L. (Ingram) Bellar. He was a member of Sycamore Chapel Church of Christ in Ashland City, Tennessee. Johnny was a talented musician from a young age, playing with The Cumberland River Boys. His father and uncle both encouraged and inspired him in his musical journey. After high school, Johnny won a dobro competition that led to him performing with The Stonemans. He appeared on “The Grand Ole Opry,” “Hee Haw,” “Nashville Now,” and “The Ralph Emery Show.” He was an original member of The New Tradition and played with them for 3 years before going solo. Johnny remained active in the Nashville area as a songwriter, demo player, and performer. He performed at Opryland, Bluebird Café, and many other local spaces. His music could be heard on commercials for Coke, Diet Coke, Mountain Dew, KFC, Tasty Cake, Dollywood, Ducks Unlimited, Nature’s Own Bread, and many others. He traveled far and wide playing as the opening act for Slim Whitman’s Australian Tour and as a featured performer for the “Masters of the Steel String Guitar.” His most memorable stage performance was at Wimberly Stadium for the Queen of England. Johnny was loved by many and will be greatly missed. Johnny is preceded in death by his parents, Johnnie and Martha Bellar; and niece, Amy Ferry. He is survived by his partner, Marilyn Grace Richardson; sister, Carolyn Amy Baker; niece, Valarie Broadway; and great nephews, Jonathan Broadway, Daniel Broadway, and Alan Ferry. His wishes were to be cremated and no services are planned.

Cheatham County Funeral Home 615-792-2552 online condolences at cheathamcountyfh.com