A proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Richard dedicated his early years to serving his country. His passion for technology led him to a pioneering career in computers, with notable work at NASA, Lone Star Steel, and Anderson Hickey. Later in life, he shared his love for numbers as a math teacher and substitute teacher, impacting the lives of countless students.
Richard was a lifelong farmer, tending to his cows, hay, and pine trees with great care. He was a man of the land, he could often be found walking the fields to check on the cows, In later years, he would ride the golf cart accompanied by his beloved dogs, who were his loyal companions.
Beyond his professional and agricultural pursuits, Richard had a playful spirit. When he was younger, he delighted in playing pranks on family members and took great joy in trolling his grandkids.
He was also a gifted musician, finding peace and pleasure in playing his 6-string and 12-string guitars, as well as his banjo. Richard’s love for music was just one of the many ways he connected with those around him.
An avid sports fan, Richard rarely missed a game, especially when it came to cheering on his beloved Dallas Cowboys and Texas Longhorns football teams. He cherished the time spent with his grandchildren, whether it was watching sports together or simply enjoying each other’s company.
Richard’s legacy is one of kindness, humor, and a deep love for his family and community. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Gretagail (Gail) Johnson; parents, Wayne and Evelyn Johnson; and brothers, Dennis and Gerald Johnson.
Richard is survived by his three sons, Renn Johnson of Longview, Ryan Johnson of Nacogdoches, and Ross Johnson of Tyler; sister and brother-in-law, Arlene and Bob Pestebak; grandchildren, Brennan and Krissy Johnson, Korynn and Kody Loera, Kristina, Evan, Chandler and Thomas Johnson; nephews and nieces, Jesse Keasler, Jon and Connie Keasler, Jan and Tim Lambert, Vicky and Pearce and many more.
Services for Mr. Johnson will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, September 6, 2024 at Reeder-Davis Chapel in Hughes Springs.
Services
Service: September 6, 2024 2:00 pm
Reeder-Davis Funeral Home - Hughes Springs
1213 Hanes Blvd. South
Hughes Springs, Texas 75656
(903) 639-2585
https://www.reeder-davis.com/
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