John Ray Johnson, 83, of De Leon, passed away Friday, September 2, 2016, with his family by his side.

He was born November 22, 1932, in Gorman to Harvey and Thursie Land Johnson. John Ray married Doris Eggleston November 18, 1950.

John Ray was a long-time member of First Baptist Church of De Leon and a member of the Couples 2 Sunday School Class. John Ray retired from Rowan Company after many years of working on off shore drilling rigs. Prior to working for the Rowan Company, John Ray owned and operated Johnson Electric and Well Service in De Leon for many years. He enjoyed working with cattle and spending time with his family and many friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 65 years, Doris Eggleston Johnson; daughter, Agatha Lowery and husband, Burl D.; grandchildren, Diana Flanagan and husband, Corby; Melody Smith and husband, Cody; and Tara Snyder and husband, James; great-grandchildren, William Flanagan, Ryan Flanagan, Caylee Smith, Macy Smith, Zach Davis, Kaitlyn Davis, Jacob Davis, Ryan Snyder and Dylan Snyder; sister, Betty Golden; brother, Jack Roy Johnson and wife, Nancy; brother-in-law, Joe Bob Browning; numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family.

John Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Thursie Johnson; brother, Harold Johnson; sister, Lauris Ann Browning; and brother-in-law, Seborn Golden.

Funeral services were held Sunday, September 4, 2016, at 2:30 p.m. at De Leon First Baptist Church with Brother Daniel Harper officiating. Graveside services followed in De Leon Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers were Ronnie Golden, Gary Golden, Johnny Golden, Jackie Golden, Lannes Callison, David Johnson and Jackson Johnson.

If desired, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church at 125 South Houston Street, De Leon, in memory of John Ray.