Gordon Emmett "Butch" Johnson Jr.

Gordon Emmett Johnson Jr., of Arlington, TX, fondly known as Butch, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2024, with his wife, Molly, and daughter, Jeanna, by his side. He was born July 12, 1947, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, to his parents Thelma and Gordon Johnson. Butch was the fourth of six children. In 1950, he moved with his family to Texas.

Butch graduated from Arlington High School in 1965 and briefly attended the University of Texas at Arlington before being inducted into the Army Infantry in February 1967. He served for three years, including one year in Korea, and was discharged honorably in January 1970. Soon after returning home, Butch and Molly were married on October 29, 1971, at St. John the Apostle Church, with the Monsignor Philip Johnson officiating. Butch and Molly celebrated the birth of their daughter Jeanna Rae in April of 1980.

Butch worked as a framer during his younger years before becoming a production manager in the door and window industry. He retired in 2014 after 27 years in the woodworking business.

Butch loved traveling with Molly, family and friends. Some of their favorite destinations were the beaches of Longboat Key and Key West, Colorado ski trips, and trips to visit his sister and her family in New England. He was known for his love of animals and was the “keeper of the critters at the Johnson Zoo.” He also enjoyed birdwatching.

Butch was a kind and caring man. He took care of his parents and wife’s parents in their declining years. He was known for his directness and his lively spirit. He was funny and enjoyed making people laugh. He was wise and discerning, never turning anyone away. He cherished his family and friends. His many “Butch-isms” will be missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Thelma Johnson; his brother Brian Johnson; his brother Monsignor Philip Johnson; and his sister Lauren Stacey.

Butch is survived by his wife of 52 years, Molly; his daughter, Jeanna Rae; and his three grandchildren, Holden, Cameron, and Raegan Cater. He is also survived by his brother Clayton Johnson; his sister Marla Whelan and her husband Ken; his brother-in-law Michael Stacey; his sister-in-law Juliette Johnson; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, and a circle of close friends.

His services will be held on July 11th at Wade Funeral Home, 4140 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, Texas 76013, followed by interment at The DFW National Cemetery in Dallas, Texas, at 1 p.m.

Butch will be remembered for his hard work, dedication to his family, and the joy he brought to all who knew him.