Bobby Dean Johnston

June 19, 1944 – July 2, 2025

With deep sorrow and overflowing love, we share the passing of Bob Johnston, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend. Bob passed away unexpectedly on July 2, 2025, at the age of 81. His absence leaves a profound space in the hearts of all who knew him, but his legacy of love, laughter, and dedication will live on forever.

Bob was born on June 19, 1944, in Morrilton, Arkansas. At just four years old, he moved with his mother to California, where he would grow into the man so many came to admire. In his younger years, he answered the call to serve his country with honor and pride, joining the United States Army and serving as a Sergeant in the Infantry at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, from 1965 to 1967.

Bob’s life truly began when he met Joanne Harp in 1971 at Dinuba Lanes. What started as a chance meeting at a bowling alley became a love story that would span decades. Their courtship was full of fun, laughter, and shared interests, and eventually they married and joined a bowling league together. Their bond only deepened as they became parents and later grandparents, creating a life centered around their family.

Bob was a devoted father to his two children, Bobby Johnston, who preceded him in death, and Amanda Heredia. He loved his son Bobby deeply and carried his memory with him always. Bob was a hands-on father who found joy in every soccer match, Little League game, and family milestone. His pride in his children was limitless, and that love only grew with the arrival of his grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife, Joanne Johnston; his daughter Amanda Heredia and her husband Juan Heredia; and his beloved grandchildren: Izaiah, Noah, and Olivia Heredia, and Derek, Briana, and Jeremia Johnston. He was also blessed with a great-grandchild, Archer Johnston.

Bob was also reunited in eternal peace with his two cherished sisters, Barbara Chance and Ruby Ward, both of whom he loved dearly and held them close in heart throughout his life. He shared a deep and loving bond with his nieces and nephews, both from his family and his wife's and was affectionately known as “Uncle Bob” to many extended family members and friends who knew just how deeply he cared for them.

Bob lived his life with an open heart and a joyful spirit. He had many passions that enriched his days and brought happiness to those around him. He loved traveling with his family, especially enjoying countless cruises that created memories to last a lifetime. He and Joanne hosted more than thirty unforgettable luau parties for family and friends, always bringing people together with warmth and celebration. He found great pleasure in golfing with friends and later teaching the game to his grandchildren. In recent years, one of his favorite pastimes became singing karaoke at Los Pepe’s, Selma Freeway Lanes or Tradewinds in Reedley, CA where his vibrant personality and love for music truly came alive. Outings became cherished routines filled with laughter, music, and connection. Bob and Joanne also shared a special joy in dancing together as members of the Reedley Western Stars dance team, where they created lifelong friendships and treasured moments on and off the dance floor.

A man of strength, compassion, and unwavering dedication, Bob gave so much to the people he loved. He was a source of wisdom, humor, and comfort — always ready with a story, a joke, or a helping hand. His family was his world, and he built a legacy that will live on through each of them.

Though he is no longer physically with us, Bob Johnston’s love continues to shine in the lives of those he touched. He will be remembered always — not just for the years he lived, but for the way he lived them: fully, generously, and with an open heart.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Bob’s honor on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Reedley Eagles. As part of this celebration, he will be recognized for his honorable military service and the extraordinary life he lived.