Former Orlinda Assistant Fire Chief Nancy Johnson Dies At 67
ORLINDA, TENNESSEE: (Smokey Barn News) – Former Orlinda Assistant Fire Chief Nancy Johnson, a longtime public servant and one of the most recognizable figures in Orlinda city government, has passed away at the age of 67. Johnson died on June 2, 2026, just three years into her retirement.
For decades, Nancy Johnson served the City of Orlinda in multiple roles, including Assistant Fire Chief and City Clerk. She was also a former member of the Robertson County 911 Board of Directors and worked alongside her husband, longtime Orlinda Fire Chief Dusty Johnson, helping lead the city’s fire department and municipal operations.
Johnson’s passing comes just three years after she and her husband retired together following lengthy careers of service to the Orlinda community. FULL STORY
At the time of their retirement, City Manager Kevin Breeding described Johnson as a vital part of both City Hall and the Orlinda Fire Department.
“Nancy brought not only more than 30 years of experience and expertise to the Fire Department but also a sense of compassion that is critical to a lot of the calls they make,” Breeding said at the time. “Those qualities, combined with her knowledge and skills, made her a vital part of the Fire Department and one that will surely be missed.”
Johnson and her husband became well known throughout Robertson County for their dedication to public service. Together, they spent decades responding to emergencies, serving residents, and helping guide the Orlinda Fire Department.
In retirement, Johnson enjoyed gardening, sewing, feeding birds, working puzzles, and spending time with her grandchildren, whom she dearly loved.
She is survived by her husband, Dusty Johnson, their children, grandchildren, and extended family.
Though we do not know the circumstances surrounding Nancy Johnson’s passing, there is no question that firefighting is a demanding and often dangerous profession. Firefighters willingly place themselves in harm’s way to protect others, frequently facing risks and exposures that can affect them long after the emergency has ended. It is a calling built on service, sacrifice, and a commitment to helping others in their time of need.
Smokey Barn News extends its condolences to the Johnson family and the many friends, firefighters, first responders, and community members whose lives were touched by Nancy’s service. For Nancy’s full obituary and service times, CLICK HERE.
