Jay Lee Dean Johnson, 56, beloved husband, son, brother, and friend, went home to be with the Lord on October 9, 2025.

He was born on July 11, 1969 in Ft. Worth, Texas, to Bill and Nelsine Johnson.

Jay was preceded in death by his mother, Nelsine Venable Johnson, and his nephew, Austin Gary Firth.

Jay is survived by his devoted wife of 10 years, Maria; their furry son, Moose; and his father, Bill Johnson, and his wife Shirley.

He is also lovingly remembered by his sisters — Thresa Johnson and her daughter Abigail Firth; Michelle Wyatt and her husband Todd; his niece Krystl Snyder and her husband Cody Snyder and their children Cade, Corbyn and Kenzy Mae; his nephew Quinton Wyatt and his wife Katie and their children Ian and Harper; nephew Dreyton Wyatt and his wife Jillian; and nephew Weston Wyatt. Jay will forever remain in their hearts and be deeply missed every day.

Those who knew Jay knew a man of immense generosity, quick wit, and laughter that could be heard above everyone in the room. His charismatic nature and warm hugs left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Family was at the center of his world, and he cherished every moment with his family, often calling different ones to chat or try to meet up for a meal if it had been too long since he had seen them.

Jay learned to play the drums at an early age often playing alongside his mother on piano and his dad on saxophone, as well as at churches he attended or at an event with friends in a band.

He was very smart and loved a good movie and could name every actor or show he had ever watched.  He was always in the know of what was up and coming or what was a great old show worth watching.  His movie interest could also be seen in the funny videos he would make for different members of the family for birthdays or just fun entertainment.  Jay was technologically savvy and did not mind helping anyone who would call him in a time of crises and was always able to help them resolve a problem.

Jay's presence filled every room with laughter. His legacy of generosity and enjoyment of family traditions will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

There will be a Celebration of Life service at 3 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, at The Ark Fellowship, 13237 Kluge Rd., Cypress, TX 77429.