Tributes paid for Helstonbury advocate Dave 'Jono' Johnson

Dave ‘Jono’ Johnson died on November 12, 2024, following a fall at home.

Jono's friend, Robbie Burns, described him as a devoted family man and a talented musician.

"He was a big family man, happiest surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren," said Robbie.

"He was also a talented guitarist, loved live music, and was a big supporter of Helstonbury, even performing once with his brother Tony as 'Johnson & Johnson.'

Robbie also noted Jono's long Royal Navy career (over 40 years) and his passion for rugby, from playing for Helston RFC to watching Helston, Cornish Pirates and Twickenham matches. 

Jono (front left) with other Helstonbury team members (Image: Helstonbury Facebook page) His love for Helstonbury shone brightly, exceeding even his role as a beloved member of the team. He consistently offered comfort and support to those in need.

Paul Turton, the founder of Helstonbury and a good friend of Jono's, was one of the first to pay tribute.

He said: “The loss of our dear friend Jono has hit everyone who knew and loved him very hard.

“Not only was he a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, and a dedicated family man, but he was also an adored and beloved member of the Helstonbury team.

“Right from the beginning, during the early days of Helstonbury, Jono was there; in times of sadness and in need of a shoulder, ‘brother Johnson’ was always there.

Jono was described as 'the greatest advocate of Helstonbury' (Image: Helstonbury Facebook page) “Jono was the greatest advocate of Helstonbury, more often than not you would see him proudly wearing his Helstonbury t-shirt. 

"He would always come and share his excitement when he had just been blown away by an amazing live performance, High Voltage being the first of many.

“He had a great passion for music and endless support for live music.

“We will all miss Jono dearly; he was part of the furniture, and Helstonbury will never be the same again.

“We will miss his big warm smile, his big cuddles and friendship, and we will miss his big, big heart.”

Another who paid tribute to Jono was Mark Bosustow of High Voltage, who first met Jono in the Skittle Alley at the Blue Anchor in 2011.

He will be truly missed (Image: Helstonbury Facebook page) “Jono had never seen us before and thought that Paul Turton, Helstonbury organiser, had booked a band from the Midlands to play,” Mark told the Packet.

“Jono and his mate Robbie Burns were standing near the back of the alley when we kicked off our set with some AC/DC.

“About halfway through the set, we introduced our next song, ‘Comfortably Numb’ by Pink Floyd. Even from the stage, I noticed Jono’s face change to a look of ‘Ah, it was all going so well.’

“Now Pink Floyd fans are the biggest critics, and Jono was a huge fan of Pink Floyd. However, after our set, Jono came up to me and complimented me on my playing on the solos and the band’s performance as a whole.”

From then on, Jono was a regular at many High Voltage gigs and quickly became a good friend to Mark and the band.

“We always looked forward to catching up with him whenever we played a gig in Helston,” Mark added.

“I have great memories of him singing along to most of the songs, especially Comfortably Numb, arm in arm with my wife Donna, who also loved him to bits, with his pint of cider or Guinness held aloft!

“Jono was a fantastic bloke, a gentleman with a heart of gold, and a smile that would light up the room. He always greeted me with a hug, and we always found the time to chat even when we were busy setting up before the gig.

“He was a true friend, and one of those friends that even if you haven’t seen him for ages when you do meet up you just pick up where you left off.

“You will be sorely missed Jono – Shine on you crazy diamond.”

High Voltage will dedicate their upcoming gig at The Rodney Inn on Friday, December 20 to Jono’s memory.

“Comfortably Numb will definitely be played just for him,” Mark added.