On the night of January 12th, 2014, the Johnson family's lives were changed forever. Jennifer and her daughter, Shelby, were awakened by a knock on the door — officers were on the other side to notify them that Deputy Bubba Johnson had been killed in a single-car crash during his shift with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office.
Even as family and friends supported them through their grief, one thought wouldn't escape Jennifer and Shelby's minds — how future families losing a loved one in the Line of Duty would manage to keep their lights on and stomachs fed before state and federal benefits kick in.
Because of that constant thought, Jennifer and Shelby founded the Deputy Bubba Johnson Foundation in 2019.
Before joining the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, Bubba served with Montgomery County EMS and the Clarksville Police Department. Known for his selflessness, kindness, and willingness to help those in need, Bubba's death dealt a huge blow not only to his family, but to the community he'd assisted and befriended across over three decades of public service.
Bubba's memory lives on — through the stories those in the community tell daily, and through this foundation's mission to assist the families of those like Bubba, just as Bubba would.
We foster community by connecting surviving families with one another, promoting healing and understanding through peer support.
We are committed to being one of the first resources available to the families of Tennessee law enforcement officers killed or seriously injured in the Line of Duty.
It takes time for survivors' benefits to be received. We will always strive to help keep the lights on in the homes and souls of surviving families.
Your gift assists the surviving families of Tennessee law enforcement officers — just as Bubba would.
Raising funds to assist the families of Tennessee Law Enforcement Officers who are seriously injured or killed in the line of duty.
© 2026 Deputy Bubba Johnson Foundation. A 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. All rights reserved.