Johnny Link Cagle

Johnny Link Cagle (b. Anderson, SC on March 26, 1947 and d. Aiken, SC on Wednesday, January 18, 2023).

The son of John D. Cagle (d.) and Hazel Link Cagle (d.), he is survived by his wife, Sharon (Foret); two daughters, Cassie Cagle of Aiken, SC and Bates Cagle of West Columbia, SC; and two sisters, Joan Green (Paul) of Carterville, GA and Dinah Cagle of Cayce, SC; step daughters, Shari Foret and Kathy Foret and two step-granddaughters, Lindsay Smith and Courtney Smith and step grandson, Drew Smith (Haley).

John’s life was the definition of a life well-lived.  His family is thankful for the many things he shared – strong faith; his love of Clemson University; his love of music and dancing – especially beach music; his ability to tell amazing stories, his dedication to help others through banking; and his unwavering pride, care and love for his family. 

A graduate of Brookland-Cayce High School, Clemson University with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management with a minor in accounting, a Master’s Degree in the School of Commercial Banking from LSU and a Master’s Degree in Advanced Management from Georgia State University.  John followed in his father and uncle’s footsteps earning a scholarship to play football for Clemson University.  Upon graduation, John was drafted and played football for the Boston (New England) Patriots professional football team.  Following his years with the Patriots, John served 6 years in the Army Reserve.

John began his career in banking with South Carolina National Bank in 1971 and moved to Aiken in 1981 where he served as the city and county executive for the bank.  In 1988, he joined Palmetto Federal Saving Bank to establish a commercial loan and business development department.  After 30 years in banking, he retired as the Senior Vice President of Commercial Banking for Regions Bank in Aiken, SC.  Over his many years in the banking industry, he enjoyed helping both individuals and businesses in communities across the state.

After moving with South Carolina National Bank in 1981, John fell in love with the town of Aiken and all its charm, deciding to make it his forever home.  Over the years, John shared his commitment, passion and leadership skills, serving on many boards and supporting the community in a variety of ways. He shared his faith as a member, deacon, Sunday school teacher, and served on various committees at First Baptist Church of Aiken. In addition to his commitment to banking, he was also a real estate broker and developer, an insurance agent, a business owner, a member of Houndslake Country Club, involved in Community and Civic affairs with a personal desire to help individuals and businesses in the community, and most recently a funeral assistant for Shellhouse and Shellhouse-Rivers Funeral Homes.

As a couple, John and Sharon have enjoyed monthly supper clubs, going to movies, attending Clemson football games, and traveling over the past 30 years.

Our family is grateful for the unwavering friendship and support, particularly over the last 6 months.

A Celebration of Life for John will be held at 1:00 PM, Saturday, January 28, 2023, at First Baptist Church of Aiken, with Senior Pastor, John Carroll officiating and visitation to follow in the church Fellowship Hall. A private burial service will be held in Cayce, SC at a later date.  The service will be livestreamed on the funeral home website.

Please send any memorials to First Baptist Church of Aiken, P.O. Box 3157, Aiken, SC 29802, and/or Clemson University through IPTAY (www.iptaycuad.com)

SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC

John’s online guest book may be signed by visiting www.shellhousefuneralhome.com