Tedd Lavern Johnson

Tedd Johnson 81, formerly of Paxton, passed away on Thursday, October 9, 2025 in Kearney, Nebraska. 

Tedd was born on September 6, 1944 in Gothenburg, Nebraska to Louis and Irma Johnson. He grew up on a farm north of Brady, Nebraska in Wild Horse Valley. He attended country school through the 8th grade, and graduated from Brady High School in 1962. Tedd loved participating in sports, especially basketball and track, holding the school record in the 440 for many years. Following high school, he attended the University of Nebraska at Lincoln for one year. He then embarked on a career of showing cattle and then training race horses. During this time, he also proudly served his country in Viet Nam, where he was an Army Specialist and the Commander’s driver.

Tedd married Lila in 1969, and settled in Paxton, where they raised their family and where Tedd became active in serving the community in the American Legion, the Lion’s Club, a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and as a member and President of the school board. He was well-known for being a hard worker, a skilled cattleman and cowboy, a no-nonsense person, a man of great strength and resilience, and a terrific family man, neighbor, friend and mentor, who would always lend a helping hand, a listening ear and give great advice and guidance.

Tedd was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife, Lila (2016). He is survived by his children: Shawne of Papillion, Nebraska; Bonita of Newcastle, Maine; Shane (Amanda) of Benkelman, Nebraska; grandchildren: Chloe, Isabella, Judd and Jack; terrific cousins, nieces and nephews, numerous “adopted” kids, grandkids, and siblings, and so many loving friends and caregivers for whom he was so grateful.

Graveside Services will be at Ft McPherson National Cemetery at 9:00 am Mountain Time on Friday, October 17th, 2025

Memorial service will follow at Trinity Lutheran Church in Paxton, Nebraska on Friday, October 17th at 11:00 am Mountain Time.  Pastor Theresa Morland officiating.   A luncheon at the church will follow the service.

Memorials can be made to the Fisher House Foundation, Dundy County Stratton FFA, Paxton FFA or to the Paxton Volunteer Fire Department.

Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.