Fred Howard Johnson

Fred Howard Johnson, a beloved resident of Kountze, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 30, 2025, at the age of 96. He was born on October 26, 1928, in Webbers Falls, Oklahoma, Fred was the youngest of 15 children born to the late William Thomas and Charlotte Abbie Johnson. He often fondly recalled his childhood in the Webbers Falls/Gore, Oklahoma area and remained deeply proud of his small-town roots throughout his life.
Fred graduated from Webbers Falls High School in 1947 and proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1950 to 1952. His love of country and strong sense of patriotism were known and admired by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Following his military service, Fred relocated to Southeast Texas, where he met and married the love of his life, Barbara Alice Reidinger, in 1957. Together, they built a life centered on faith in God, family, love, and community. Their marriage of over 60 years was a testament to lasting commitment and devotion.
Fred was a successful local businessman, but his greatest pride came from being a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Above all, Fred was a man of faith. He was a dedicated member of the Kountze Church of Christ for more than 60 years. His unwavering belief in his Savior and his love for others were evident in both his words and actions.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Barbara, his son Ricky Glen Johnson, grandson Brian Dustin Overstreet, son-in-law Don Melton, his parents, and all 14 of his siblings.
Fred is survived by his daughters Donna Melton of Vidor, Cindy Deatrick of Silsbee, Kayla Johnson of Lufkin, and Abbe Overstreet of Kountze; his son Eric Johnson of Kountze; and son-in-law Steve Deatrick. He is also survived by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and even great-great grandchildren who will forever cherish his memory.
A memorial service to honor Fred's life will be held at the Kountze Church of Christ on May 5, 2025, at 1:00 pm with funeral services to follow at 2:00 pm at the same location, with Minister Heath Stapleton officiating. His interment will follow at Holland Cemetery, Kountze, under the direction of Broussard's, 490 Cemetery Road, Silsbee.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and celebrate the legacy of a man whose life was marked by love, faith, and service-and who touched countless lives along the way.