Virgil Franklin Johnson

CASA GRANDE - Virgil Franklin Johnson, 87, of Casa Grande died peacefully in his sleep on Oct. 9, 2016, with loved ones at his side.

Mr. Johnson was born on Sept. 12, 1929, in Kress, Texas, to Bill and Jane Johnson. He attended and graduated from Texas Tech University, where he played basketball. He worked in construction in Casa Grande for 51 years. He and his wife, Sammie, hosted many campsites throughout Arizona during that time.

He also worked for a storage business in Casa Grande for 10 years before retiring. He loved fishing with his sons and grandkids, and his favorite song was "The Yellow Rose of Texas." He was a kind and considerate man with a big heart.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years; 11 sons and daughters, Brad, Mary, Tracia, Ed, David, Patty, Eric, Scott, Cindy, Mike and Kim; 10 grandchildren; and eight great- grandchildren.

The celebration of life will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel.