Theodore "Ted" Lloyd Johnson

Theodore “Ted” Lloyd Johnson, 77, of Benton, went home to be with the Lord on October 22, 2025. He was born on October 26, 1947, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, and lived a life full of faith, laughter, and love.

Ted was a man of strong character and quiet strength. After graduating high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as an aircraft mechanic for more than three years. He poured his heart into everything he did and earned several commendations along the way. After his time in the service, Ted continued his career as a Journeyman Machinist with Union Pacific Railroad, where his hard work and dedication earned the respect of everyone who worked alongside him.

More than anything, Ted was a man of faith. He loved the Lord deeply and never hesitated to share that love with others. You could often find him talking about God, offering encouragement, or praying for someone who needed it. His faith wasn’t just something he talked about—it was something he lived every day. Because of his example, many in his family came to know and love the Lord for themselves.

Ted also had a wonderful sense of humor. He loved to make people laugh and could light up any room he walked into. He was famous for his April Fools’ Day pranks and always had a twinkle in his eye when he was up to something funny. His laughter, his teasing, and his easy-going nature made him a joy to be around.

When he wasn’t making people laugh, Ted could often be found in his workshop, creating something beautiful out of wood. He had a natural gift for woodworking and took great pride in every piece he made—each one a reflection of his patience, skill, and creativity.

He was a loyal fan of the Iowa State Cyclones and the Kansas City Chiefs, and he enjoyed music of all kinds. Some of his favorite memories were made while fishing with his grandson, Jeffrey. Ted was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather—his family was truly his greatest joy.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 56 years, Linda Johnson of Benton; his children, Joseph Johnson (Sandra) of Tennessee and Paulette Wood of Benton; grandchildren, Jeffrey Wood (Leah) of Benton and Joshua Johnson of Texas; sister, Jackie Long of Malvern; sisters-in-law, Paula Fitzgerald of Texas and Candy Kelly (Kevin) of Omaha, Nebraska; and his dear friends, Larry Hill of Omaha and Teddy Penedo of Benton. He is also loved and remembered by many other family members and friends who will miss him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Carroll Theodore and Alyce Ruth (Hunifeld) Johnson; sisters, Carol Ruth Jones and Arlene Meyers; and granddaughter, Tori Pruett.

A visitation to honor Ted’s life will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas.

Ted Johnson will always be remembered for his unshakable faith, his love for his family, his craftsmanship, and his ability to make everyone around him feel seen, loved, and uplifted.