Johnny Franklin Salley, beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away at the age of 91 on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at his home in Henderson, Nevada.

He was born on June 30, 1933, in St. Charles, Virginia, to Howard and Norva Salley. Growing up alongside his siblings, he developed a strong bond with his family that remained a cornerstone of his life. Johnny graduated from Pennington High School in Pennington Gap, Virginia, in 1951.

In 1953, Johnny joined the Army Reserves and later enlisted in the United States Air Force. He proudly served in the Air Force for 20 years, working as a Weapon Specialist and Weapon Mechanic Supervisor. During his service, he received several awards and medals, including the Vietnam Service Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Commendation Medal, and Air Force Longevity Service Award.

Johnny met his wife, Wilma, while he was stationed in Holland. The couple married in 1966 and started a family shortly thereafter. His years in the military instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and commitment—qualities that he carried throughout his life. In 1974, he retired from the Air Force as a Technical Sergeant.

Civilian life offered Johnny a variety of interesting occupations, including school bus driver, truck driver, and sheriff's deputy. In 1977, he accepted a position with Northrop Corporation and relocated his family to Saudi Arabia. The years they spent in the Middle East became an adventure that the entire family enjoyed. Eventually, the family returned to the United States and settled in Nevada, living in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area for many years. Johnny worked as a Houseboat Operations Manager and Maintenance Manager at several marinas until he fully retired in 1995.

Johnny was known for his hardworking nature and his love for those around him. He had a sharp sense of humor and enjoyed joking and bringing laughter to any gathering. As a dedicated family man, he provided steadfast support to his wife, daughters, and their children. Johnny found joy in simple pleasures, whether it was fishing with his brothers in Alaska, woodworking in his garage, or defeating his opponents at Yahtzee. He embraced these moments with enthusiasm. Additionally, he enjoyed spending time alone playing Texas Hold'Em and Blackjack on his computer and watching football and Family Feud on TV.

Johnny is survived by his beloved wife, Wilma; daughters Norva (Jay), Angela (Shane), and Jackie (Chris); grandchildren John, Morgaine (Chris), Lizzy, Rowynn (Mustafa), Kevin (Christina), Meghann, Sarah (Michael), and Jaxon; great-grandchildren Evelynn and Ezra; brothers Gene, Buck (Dawn) and sister Marilyn (Charles); as well as many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents Howard and Norva; brothers Jim and Ralph; and sister Carol.

Johnny’s legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to family will live on through those who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.

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