Johnny Hart, R.I.P.

Cartoonist Johnny Hart died yesterday, the AP reports:

ALBANY, N.Y. – Cartoonist Johnny Hart, whose award-winning “B.C.” comic strip appeared in more than 1,300 newspapers worldwide, died at his home on Saturday. He was 76.

“He had a stroke,” Hart’s wife, Bobby, said on Sunday. “He died at his storyboard.”

I have many fond memories of looking at the funny pages of the newspaper on Easter Sunday to see how Hart would pay tribute to the resurrection of Christ. Each year, in his “B.C.” comic strip, Hart confounded the politically correct and in newspapers around the world acknowledged the risen Christ. The comic that ran this Easter, the day after his death, was no exception.

He will be missed.

12 thoughts on “Johnny Hart, R.I.P.”

  1. I know Jonny while serving in the same barracks as he in 1952 at robins AFB, georgia.

    I played in his band and sang in his trio….favorite (and mine) was
    (candy) and next was (it’s only a paper moon).

    He had many talents and painted our day room with his charactures.

    He is in my prayers……….Jim Sartwell

  2. I read very few comic strips, but BC was one that I read daily. I started reading it one Easter Sunday when I noticed his Christian witness in his comic strip. It was a rarity that got me hooked on BC. Since then I have enjoyed many of his writings and cartoons. Johnny will be missed but I rest assured that he is in a better place.

  3. I grew up down the street from Johnny in West Endicott. I will never forget standing over his shoulder watching him draw and it was not until I became older that I realized that he was actually saying something to the world. What I recieved from him was as a growing kid was what a fun, kind, nice man he was to include me in his life.
    Thank you for including us all.
    Tom Demetros

  4. I teach a unit on comics in my creative writing class. I’ll include some of his comics to keep his memory and talent alive to future generations. : )
    Jody

  5. Mr. Hart’s cartoons are funny, touching, and even at times a blessing. I’m glad to read that they will continue through his family, because I would really miss them.

    My condolences and prayers are with his family, but they can be proud of his work and witness.
    Jean Savage…a faithful reader.

  6. Johnny had a ‘Hart’ as depicted in one of the earlier cartoons as they were discussing what to call the thing inside the body that made the sound and vibrated.
    The ‘Bootlicker’ is a is an inspiration and keepsake.
    RIP

    The Great Kanooz

  7. With great sadness, I read of Johnny Hart’s death. I always enjoyed his many comics, but especially the ones where he got a spiritual message across. May he rest in peace.

  8. The B.C. comic strip has always been a favorite for it’s insight into the human condition and society. I am glad it will be continued. My condolences to his family.

Comments are closed.