Gaylon Wayne Johnson

Gaylon Wayne Johnson passed away on May 16, 2026, in Arlington, Texas, at the age of 70. He was born on September 11, 1955, in Abilene, Texas, to Benny James Johnson and Peggy Christine (Courtney) Johnson.

The family will receive friends from 6pm to 8pm on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Wade Family Funeral Home, Arlington, Texas. A funeral service will be held at 10am on Friday, May 29, 2026, at the funeral home. Gaylon will be laid to rest following the service at Hawkins Cemetery, Arlington, Texas.

In 1965, Gaylon and his family moved from West Dallas to Arcadia Park, and later to Oak Cliff, where he spent most of his childhood and formative years. During high school, he was actively involved in drama and debate. Though naturally shy and challenged by a stutter, Gaylon worked diligently to overcome those obstacles. His determination and talent earned him memorable roles in numerous school plays, including several lead performances that his classmates still fondly remember today.

Faith played a central role throughout Gaylon’s life. He devoted much of his time to church activities and attended several congregations over the years, including Trinity Worship in Dallas, Texas, and Bible Believers Assembly in Grand Prairie, Texas. While attending Bible Believers Assembly, he was introduced to Susan Dianne Smith by her brother, Randy Smith, in 1981. Their relationship blossomed, and they were married on July 2, 1982.

Together, Gaylon and Susan faithfully served as youth pastors at Bible Believers Assembly, where they organized activities and dedicated themselves to teaching young people about the Word of God. Their greatest joy came with the birth of their daughter, Heather, on October 2, 1983. One of Gaylon’s proudest moments was walking Heather down the aisle on June 16, 2007.

Gaylon’s heart grew even fuller when he became a grandfather. On November 1, 2009, he welcomed his first grandson, David Isaiah Southerland, and on January 31, 2020, his second grandson, Matthew Elijah Southerland, was born. He deeply loved his grandsons and cherished every moment spent with them. Though he did not want to leave them behind, his family finds comfort in knowing God had other plans.

Gaylon will be lovingly remembered for his faith, perseverance, gentle spirit, fun-loving nature, and unwavering devotion to his family and church community. Everyone who knew him remembers how much he loved to joke around and laugh, bringing joy and warmth to those around him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan Johnson; daughter, Heather Southerland and husband Seth; grandsons, David and Matthew Southerland; sisters, Judy Neble, Brenda Tharp, and Sandra Sinclair; brother, Benny Johnson and wife Dorothy; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Benny Johnson and Peggy Nevil; brother, James Johnson; brother-in-law, Jeff Smith; nephew, Jeremy Smith; and father- and mother-in-law, Royce and Louise Smith.

Gaylon’s legacy of faith, love, laughter, and dedication to family will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.