John Leo Boucher

John (Johnny) Boucher, 1961-2021

Local artist, musician, author, and exceptionally well dressed master barber Johnny Boucher passed away unexpectedly at home on Thursday, May 13. Everyone who ever met Johnny knows that he was one of a kind and that we’ve lost a beloved friend, son, partner, and brother.

Born in Massachusetts on September 18, 1961, Johnny grew up in the Boston area and in central New Jersey. As early as high school, he became known for his flair for the dramatic, which included leaping onto a cafeteria table and performing an air guitar solo. He studied communications at Boston University and lived in Boston for many years.

Johnny had a very happy final chapter of his life in Santa Fe, where he found the landscape to be quite magical. He had settled into a loving relationship with his girlfriend, Ziggy Prothro, and he adored her two kids, his stepchildren, Lark and Jude. His beloved dog, Bez, has been adopted by his family.

He loved his clients at Johnny’s Classic Barber Shop, and they appreciated his kind touch and his epic storytelling. Johnny loved his family, who are spread all across the country and who all adored him. He is survived by his parents, Marguerite and John; his brothers, Peter, Leo, Mark, Brian, and Michael; and his ex-wives, Carolyn Fletcher of Santa Fe and Laurel Michaels of Massachusetts.

As with many families, the last year brought them into closer contact via videoconference, and his brothers heard many loving accounts of his home life and work life in Santa Fe. At the same time, he sent his parents many fanciful letters, marked by his unique penmanship and imaginative drawings. He also used the time while the shop was closed to work on other artistic projects including writing, drawing, and music. We love you and miss you, Johnny!