William "Bill" Howard Johnson

Bill was born in Norfolk, Nebraska to Emma (Nuernberger) Johnson and A. Raymond Johnson and spent his childhood on the generational family farm outside of Wisner, Nebraska. Bill was the youngest of 3 boys, his oldest brother was Robert and his middle brother Warren. He attended District 17 Country School for grades K-8 and then Wisner High School graduating in 1963. While growing up on the farm, he was an active member of the Goldenrod 4-H Club, where he showcased the Grand Champion calf at the Cuming County Fair and the Norfolk Expo Livestock Show. Bill earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and was an avid Cornhusker fan throughout his life. He was a proud member of the Delta Sigma Pi Fraternity. Bill completed his service in the National Guard Air Force at Lackland and Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas.

Bill began his career in Wisconsin working in marketing for K-Mart before transitioning to Chicago to begin his successful 30-year tenure with Delta Airlines, where his passion for airplanes and travel flourished. Delta took him to ORD, DFW, HOU, IAH – better known to us as Chicago O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Hobby Houston, and Houston Bush Intercontinental where he held various operational roles within Delta, from baggage service to ticketing to the tarmac. While in Chicago, he frequented the Elk Grove Lounge near the O’Hare Airport, a typical hang out for airline employees. Bill initiated an introduction with Allyson (Allie) Drury one evening at the lounge. They dated for 5 years and were married on October 11, 1980 living outside of Chicago in Elgin and Darien, IL before moving to The Woodlands, TX ultimately retiring here.

Bill and Allie shared a loving marriage of 43 years which was filled with cherished moments at home and unforgettable trips around the world. Their travels took them to six of the seven continents, from flying the British Airways Concorde to cruising the Viking Boats throughout Europe. They most enjoyed the German beer, WWII sites, the streets of Paris, culinary delights in Italy, the African safaris, the pyramids of Egypt, the vibrant culture of Hong Kong, the beaches of Indonesia, the koalas and beauty of Australia, and all they experienced in-between. They were blessed with extraordinary travels.

A kind and gentle man with a sharp wit, Bill will always be remembered for his quiet sense of humor, one-liners and warm presence. Those who knew him loved him and will forever hold his handprint on their heart. He had a love for history, travel, old westerns, black-and-white sitcoms, foreign news channels, his flight simulators, airplanes, golf, and more. Above all, Bill’s greatest love was his wife Allie, whom he affectionately called “wifey.” After her passing in Spring 2023, Bill faced his own medical complexities and health challenges with an internal strength, adaptability, and grace that few will ever know. Now, he rests where he belongs, reunited with his beloved Allie and other family members. He will be deeply missed and forever loved. Rest in Heavenly Peace, Bill. XOXO

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Michelle, Bill’s dedicated caretaker who provided invaluable assistance with daily tasks, as well as friendship, empathy, and care to both Bill and the entire family. Additionally, the family is deeply grateful to Linda, Bill and Allie’s neighbor and friend for over 30 years. Linda was by Bill’s side at the time of his passing, holding his hand and offering comfort and love as he peacefully transitioned.

Bill is survived by Sister-In-Law LaVonne Johnson, Sister-In-Law Angie Johnson Neuharth, Sister-In-Law Irene Simon, Brother-In-Law Charles Drury (Regina Diljonas), Sister-in-Law Torill Drury; Nieces and Nephews Lana Johnson Peta (John), Venna Johnson O’Brien (Glenn), Stacy Johnson Waller (Joe), Doug Johnson (Jennifer), Steven Johnson (Ashley), Scott Simon (Lana), John Simon, Allison Simon Pabich (Keith), Jennifer Drury Cooley (Rob), Elizabeth Drury Manchin (Brian) and numerous Great Nieces and Nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his Wife Allyson Johnson, Parents Emma and Raymond Johnson, Brother Robert Johnson, Brother Warren Johnson, Brother-in-Law G. Ronald Simon, and Niece-In-Law Jenni Johnson.

Bill will be laid to rest at Forest Park The Woodlands Funeral Home & Cemetery in the Spring of 2025, funeral service details will be announced at a later date.

"When someone you love becomes a memory, that memory becomes a treasure."