William Jennings Johnson, 86, of Lincoln, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025, at Havelock Manor, where he had resided since February of 2023. In his final days, he was lovingly surrounded by his favorite girls, a comfort that reflected the deep bonds he cherished throughout his life.

Born on July 22, 1939 in York, Nebraska, William was the oldest son of Albin and Laura Johnson. He grew up alongside his siblings Ken Johnson, Jane Willis, Judy Wisdom, and Donna Heins.

William’s life was marked by achievement, service, and devotion to family. He obtained his auctioneer’s, real estate, and insurance licenses, and was a lifetime member of the York Masonic Lodge. He was also a proud member of the Sesostris Shrine and the American Quarter Horse Association, and he mentored youth through the Teammates program.

His career was diverse and impactful: He served with the Nebraska State Patrol, thrived as an auctioneer, and, together with his wife Myrna, co-owned a real estate business, insurance company, and auction house. He revitalized struggling real estate businesses, worked as a mortgage loan officer, and later served as Vice President of Lincoln Federal Savings Bank.

William also served his country with honor. He attended the United States Naval Academy from 1957 to 1961, then continued in the United States Navy Reserve until 1963. He trained at Great Lakes in Company 9, completed Class A School in Imperial Beach, California, and served in Adak, Alaska, and Homestead, Florida.

In 1971, William married Myrna Johnson, and together they built a loving family. He is survived by his children Jennifer Johnson Rieflin, JoAnna Johnson, William (Kymmi) Johnson Jr., Cynthia (David) Catano, and Corrine Bever; stepchildren Debra (Hank) Besack and James Moyer; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren. His everyday joy was living close to his daughter Jen and helping raise his grandchildren, Teara and Kylee.

William’s hobbies reflected his zest for life: golfing, fishing, playing the harmonica and banjo, cheering for Husker football and volleyball, showing horses, photography, and endless banter. Friends and family fondly recall the comforting smell of his pipe, a simple pleasure that became part of his presence and memory. He will be remembered for his humor, generosity, and devotion to family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Myrna Johnson, his parents Laura and Albin Johnson, his brother Jimmy Johnson, and his sister Jane Willis.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at St. David’s Episcopal Church, 8800 Holdredge Street, Lincoln, NE 68505. Private inurnment at the National Cemetery will take place at a later date.

William’s legacy of service, laughter, and love will live on in all who knew him.

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