John W Ahearn Jr.

John William (Billy) Ahearn Jr. passed away peacefully on January 13, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer, at the Audie Murphy Veterans Hospital.

John was a devoted husband and father, a successful businessman, and a gifted problem solver. He had an exceptional ability to fix or build anything he set his mind to, often finding creative solutions where others could not. An avid reader with knowledge across many subjects, John was known for his curiosity, strong opinions, and engaging conversations. Adventurous by nature, he embraced challenges and was never afraid to try something new.

Throughout both his military and personal life, John survived numerous serious accidents, including three helicopter crashes, three airplane crashes, four boating accidents, one motorcycle accident. And a few good run-in's with horses -testaments to both his resilience and determination.

John was born on December 7, 1945, in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, and grew up near the Outer Banks, sparking a lifelong love of fishing, boating, hunting, and outdoor adventures. He attended East Carolina College and, following graduation, joined the United States Army, where he was selected for Officer Training School. His military service included tours in Vietnam, Indochina, Korea, and Germany. A proud patriot, John received numerous meritorious awards and survived the attack at Fire Base Illingworth in Vietnam, where he earned one of his three Purple Hearts.

After leaving the military, John began a highly successful career in the flooring industry in North Carolina, Austin, and San Antonio, where he met his wife, Sylvia. They eventually settled in Boerne, Texas. Inspired by Sylvia's love of horses, John became an accomplished horseman and rode alongside her for many years as part of the Bexar County Palomino Patrol, enjoying trail rides and camping adventures across several states.

In retirement, John was deeply involved in ranching with his son Nick and took great pride in the John Deere tractor Nick gifted him. He treasured the time spent at the ranch, surrounded by family and friends, and enjoyed attending reunions with fellow Vietnam veterans.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Sylvia Schmidt Ahearn; his sons Nicholas Shawn Ahearn (Sara) and John W. Ahearn III (Cindy); his daughters Abbie K. Richards (James) and Laurie C. Staples (Paul); and his cherished grandchildren Parker Staples, Caleb Staples, Chase Davis, Soren Winters, and Rowdy Ahearn. He is also survived by his brother Mike Ahearn (Diane) and sister Dee McLaughlin (Lance). He was preceded in death by his parents, John W. and Sybil Ahearn.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. A graveside service will be conducted on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 11:00am.

John was deeply loved and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.