Scotty Radford Johnson City TN Obituary: A Life of Creativity and Inspiration
The art world is mourning the loss of Scotty Radford, a celebrated artist and graphic designer based in Johnson City, Tennessee, who passed away peacefully on June 24, 2025, at the age of 42.
Scotty’s creative spirit touched the hearts of Phish fans and fellow artists worldwide, and his unexpected loss has left an immeasurable void within his family, his creative community, and the many people who were drawn to his art and his kindness .
A Life of Art and Music
Born on February 14, 1983, in Johnson City, Scotty’s life was intricately connected to the colors and rhythms of the Appalachians. Surrounded by the region’s rolling landscapes, he discovered his passion for art in childhood. His sketchpads brimmed with experimental designs, and at an early age, he began combining imagery with music—laying the foundation for a career that would merge graphic design and visual storytelling .
Education and Career
Scotty attended East Tennessee State University, earning a degree in Visual Arts and Graphic Design. During his college years, he honed his talent across various mediums—from analog illustrations to digital composition—always guided by a natural curiosity for texture, tone, and form. After graduating, he returned to Johnson City, where he established Radford Design Studio, a small but dynamic firm specializing in album graphics, concert posters, and commissioned artworks .
Groundbreaking Work
What set Scotty apart was his groundbreaking work within the Phish community. He was best known for creating vibrant, surreal, and emotionally evocative artwork for Phish concerts, studio releases, and festival promotions.
His designs, often pulsing with psychedelic energy and layered meaning, became iconic—instantly recognizable to fans and fellow artists. Through his art, Scotty invited viewers to see music as a visual journey, weaving ethereal landscapes with intricate linework and saturated palettes that captured the improvisational and joyous essence of the band .
Community and Legacy
Scotty’s work was more than art; it was community. He was a fixture at Phish events and art shows, always present with a warm smile and ready to engage in meaningful conversations. He mentored aspiring artists, taught digital illustration workshops, and generously shared software tips, creative insights, and a constant stream of encouragement. His humility was genuine, his feedback supportive, and those closest to him knew he celebrated other creators as much as he did his own work .
Memorial Celebration
A public memorial celebration of Scotty’s life and legacy will be held in Johnson City on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at the Jonesborough Arts Barn, starting at 4 p.m. Artists, friends, and music lovers are invited to share stories, display creative tributes, sample food, and enjoy live acoustic sets. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Scotty Radford Memorial Art Fund, which will support young artists through local scholarships and community workshops .
Surviving Family
Scotty is survived by his loving partner, Avery Thompson; his daughter, Lila Radford, age 9; his parents George and Marlene Radford; and his brother Evan Radford (Leslie). He also leaves behind a close-knit community of creative collaborators and loyal fans who will forever value his vibrancy, generosity, and vision .
Conclusion
Scotty Radford’s life was a brushstroke in the larger canvas of creativity—a vibrant, joyful explosion of color, kindness, and inspiration. Though he has taken his final bow, his legacy will continue to ripple through every poster, guitar riff, sunset hike, and grateful heart he touched. May his bold lines and bright energy live on through his art—and through the many lives he lifted with his talent and warmth .
