Billy D. Johnston, 1951-2023
Billy Dean Johnston, of Water Valley, passed away on April 29, 2023 at the age of 71 at his home in Water Valley, TX. He was born on August 5, 1951, in San Angelo, Tx to his parents John and Ann (Dilley) Johnston. Billy attended Water Valley ISD until his junior year of high school and then attended San Angelo Central High School, where he graduated in 1969.
He then attended Texas Tech University in the fall of 1969. In 1971 he was selected to be in one of the most prestigious organizations at Texas Tech, The Saddle Tramps. In 1974 he graduated from Texas Tech with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Billy met his wife JaJean Jaquess while at Texas Tech and they were married on May 11, 1974, in Tahoka Tx. After graduation he returned to Water Valley to run the now 5th generation family ranch with his brother John.
He was a long-time member of the Water Valley volunteer fire department, he proudly served on the Water Valley ISD School board for 14 years with many of those years acting as president of the board, and served in many positions as a member of the Water Valley First United Methodist Church. As a member of the church, he constantly instilled a love of Christ in his family, his children and grandchildren. Even to his last days he had a love for life and could be found with a smile on his face, ready to laugh at whatever life dealt him. A stranger never crossed his doorstep. He would stop and talk with anyone anywhere.
He is survived by his wife JaJean Johnston. His son Quinn and wife Amanda Johnston of Sterling City, TX, his son Brice Johnston and Betsy Budge of Boyd, TX. His daughter, Brittney Redwine and husband Brice Redwine of Olton, TX. His Grandchildren Aubree Johnston, Hadley Johnston. Taylor Budge, Emma Johnston, Brinn Redwine, Bailey Redwine, and Baron Redwine. His Sister-in-law Sue Johnston, nephew Kendall Johnston and family, niece Keri Dwyer and family. Cousins James Tweedle, Carolyn Johnston Frost, and Janice Johnston Williston, and many other lifelong friends that he considered family.
He was preceded in death by his father John Howard Johnston, mother Ann Dilley Johnston, and brother John Dilley Johnston. Father-in-law Jack Brice Jaquess, and mother in law Molly Christine Jaquess.
A memorial service to celebrate Billy's life will be held Thursday, May the 4th at 10:30 am in San Angelo at Harper Funeral Home. Visitation and a meal will follow the service at The Water Valley Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Billy's name to the charity of your choice or: West Texas Rehab Center's Hospice of San Angelo. 1933 University, San Angelo, TX 76904.
