Johnny Jerome “Kool John” McLean departed his earthly life on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. He was born in High Point, NC, on September 24, 1962, the son of the late Elijah McLean Sr. and Ella Lee Southern-McLean.

In addition to his parents, Johnny was preceded in death by his brother, Bobby McLean, and great nephew, Fontrel LaDetric Rorie, Jr.

Johnny graduated from Lucy C. Ragsdale, class of 1980. He was an AWESOME basketball player and overall, a great athlete. He pursued his education at Davidson County Community College, where he continued his basketball career. He dedicated his life to mentoring the male youth during his years of coaching basketball. He was an assistant basketball coach at Lucy C. Ragsdale, where he also coached his son Johnny during his basketball career at Lucy C. Ragsdale. He was employed with Drexel Heritage for several years before his health declined.

Johnny was well-known among family and friends for his outgoing personality. He never met a stranger and loved engaging in long conversations about sports. He enjoyed dancing, creating music, DJing, spending time with family and friends, and fishing with his family and friends.

Johnny leaves behind to cherish his memories: his wife, Victoria Smith-McLean of High Point, NC; two sons, Johnny McLean of High Point, NC, and Jalen McLean of Antioch, TN; a grand-daughter, Aaliyah McLean; four brothers, Elijah (Cindy) McLean Jr. of Lexington, NC, Mark “Weedy” McLean, Tyrone McLean and James “Skin” Southern all of High Point, NC; two sisters, Rebecca McLean and Vickie (Abraham) McKiver both of High Point, NC; sister-in-law, Jackie Rorie-McLean of High Point, NC; three aunts, Margrette Graham of Roland, NC, Lula Baker and Betty McLean both of High Point, NC; a host of nieces, nephews that he loved dearly; and several special cousins and friends.

A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at Williams Memorial CME Church. The family will receive friends at the church from 2:30 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.