Johnny Darrell Byford

November 25, 1941 ~ September 2, 2020

© Lehman Funeral Homes
Reprinted with permission

Submitted by: Jo Aguirre

Johnny Darrell Byford was born November 25, 1941 in Davenport, Oklahoma to Vernon and Bonnie (Miller) Byford. He passed away September 2, 2020 in Chandler at the age of 78.

Johnny was raised by his grandparents. He attended 2 years of High School in Stockton, Texas before returning home to Chandler where he graduated with the Chandler High School class of 1959. After graduation, Johnny enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country for 3 years. He was very active in the Alumni Associations of both schools for many years. He owned and operated Schultz Body Shop for many years until his retirement.

Johnny was an avid fan of Nascar racing. He and his family traveled the circuit for several years and at one time was part owner in a race car that raced at the Oklahoma City Fairgrounds as well as the Meeker Racetrack. He enjoyed trying out new restaurants at every opportunity. He sponsored various race car drivers and enjoyed cheering them on. Johnny proudly flew his #3 Dale Earnhart flag every race day. The family made many trips to Texas to buy cowboy boots, barbeque sauce and go to Clark’s Outpost. Johnny served as the president of the Studebaker Club for a time. He also enjoyed restoring old cars, motorcycles, and visiting coffee shops with his friends. After he retired from the body shop, he began making wooden crosses and letter openers, and horseshoe art.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Bonnie (Miller) Byford; grandparents, Levi and Smantha (Clarkson) Miller. Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Dee (Masquat) Byford of the home; children, Richard, Kimberly, and Leslie; 7 grandchildren, Samantha, Rebecca, Jacquelyn, Joshua, Jacob, Shirley, Lauren; 10 great-grandchildren, Avery, Tenley, Bryer, Mara, Kayden, Ronin, Brandt, Maizlynn, Everly, Ellie; siblings, Jim Byford (Beverly), Bobby Ray Cloud, along with other family and many friends.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 4, 2020 at the New Zion Cemetery in Chandler under the direction of Lehman Funeral Home of Wellston.