Raymond (Red) Johnston, Jr.

Raymond "Red" Johnston, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on August 18, 2026, at the age of 59, after a courageous battle with Sarcoidosis. Born on July 4, 1967, in Texarkana, AR, Red was a spirited and loving man who left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Red's parents, Raymond, Sr. and Joyce Johnston, preceded him in death, leaving behind a legacy of love and strength that Red carried forward. He is survived by his devoted wife, Teresa Johnston, of 38 years. The couple shared a beautiful life together, filled with love and laughter. Red was the proud father of Samantha (Jesse) Stephens and Christopher Johnston, and the cherished grandfather of five grandchildren: Waylon, Claire, and Jaylon Stephens, Lilly Johnston, and Skylar Ovalle. His family was his greatest joy, and he delighted in every moment spent with them. Red's siblings, James (Lisa) Johnston, David (Teena) Westmoreland, Roxy Reneau, Linda Solida, and Annette (Johnny) Todd, remember him as a brother who brought joy and warmth to their lives. His jovial spirit and knack for making others laugh made him a favorite among children and adults alike. A dedicated patriot, Red served his country with honor. He began his military service in the Air Force in 1986, achieving the rank of Airman First Class before his honorable discharge in 1989. He was recognized for his marksmanship with the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon and served as a munitions systems specialist. Red's professional life was marked by a strong work ethic and a diverse skill set. He thrived as an Airframe and Powerplant mechanic and a Class A Commercial Truck Driver with Hazmat endorsement, earning accolades for his safe driving practices. A lifelong resident of Doddridge, AR, Red was an active member of the Friendship Baptist Church and served as the Bright Star Volunteer Fire Captain for four years, demonstrating his commitment to his community. Beyond his professional and community contributions, Red was an avid hunter and fisherman. However, his greatest passion was spending time with his family and friends, creating memories filled with laughter and love. The family would like to extend gratitude to Dwight Douglass, a special friend and brother in law, for his unwavering dedication to Red and his family through the years. A service to celebrate Red's life will be held on Saturday August 29, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Friendship Baptist Church, located at 498 AR-160, Doddridge, AR 71834 with a potluck "eatin' meetin'" immediately after in the fellowship hall. The family extends a special thank you to the staff at Overton Brooks Veterans Administration Hospital in Shreveport, LA, for their unwavering support and care during Red's time of need. Red's presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy of laughter, love, and service will live on in the hearts of those who knew and cherished him.