William Clyde Johnson

William C. “Bill” Johnson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator, mentor, and faithful servant of God, entered eternal rest at the age of 88. Born to Alice Smith Johnson and Isaih Johnson in Thalia near Vernon, Texas, Bill grew up in Crowell, Texas and graduated from Crowell Public Schools before attending Jarvis Christian College, where his lifelong commitment to education began.

He started his teaching career in 1961 at Dunbar High School in Fort Worth ISD, later continuing at Smith High School in Caldwell, Texas, where he met and married Yvonne Jones, his devoted wife of 61 years. Bill’s career was briefly interrupted when he was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving honorably in Freiburg, Germany, where he taught at the Army Education Center. Upon returning home, he resumed teaching and coaching at Smith High School, leading a remarkable, undefeated District season and advancing to the State Championship in football.

Bill later taught and coached in Marlin, Texas, mentoring many young athletes, including future Houston Oiler Ernest Kirk. During this time, he and Yvonne served faithfully at Providence Baptist Church and operated the well-loved J’s Eat ’n’ Treat, or “Black Dairy Queen,”, a vibrant gathering place for the community.

In 1967, Bill returned to Fort Worth to teach Science at Dunbar Junior High School, later transitioning to the University of Texas at Arlington, where he served for 11 years as Assistant Financial Aid Director. Known for his guidance and steady encouragement, he helped countless students and families navigate financial aid and pursue higher education. He also mentored student leaders, serving as advisor to the Lambda Chi Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the Mu Beta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and the Black Student Union at UTA.

A devoted disciple of Christ, Bill served for 30 years at Zion Baptist Church as Youth Director, Sunday School Teacher, Finance Committee Member, Choir Member and Deacon. He later became a cherished member of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in the choir and as a Sunday School Teacher. He continued to serve joyfully in worship and ministry in the choir and as a Deacon at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas.

Bill was deeply committed to civic service. He worked tirelessly as a Tarrant County Election Clerk, participating in every election, primary and runoff. His dedication extended into community and public service through his leadership as a FWISD School Board Member for District 4, President of the Highland Hills Neighborhood Association Block, and through his business endeavors, including College Connection and the William C. Johnson Construction Company. He also partnered in community initiatives with National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc. as an Anthropos.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Harold L. Johnson and Robert B. Johnson, and sisters Lula M. Henderson, Letha Newman, Mary I. Kenney, Martha Sparkman, and Willie M. Hamilton.

Bill leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife Yvonne; daughters Connie Johnson-Bennett (Greg), Sonja Johnson Hughes, M.D. (Willie), and Yolanda Johnson Parker, Ph.D. (Claud); grandchildren Gregory Bennett, Jr., Kailee Bennett, Leah Hughes and Claud Parker, Jr.; sister Bobbie Tucker; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family, former students, and dear friends.

Bill Johnson lived a life of purpose, humility, service, and steadfast faith. His legacy of love and leadership will continue to shine brightly in all who were touched by his presence.