Duffy Johnson

Duffy Johnson, 91, of Roswell, NM passed away February 25, 2016 and has taken the trail ride to Heaven. A celebration of his life will be held at 1:00 pm on Monday, February 29, 2016 at Ballard Funeral Home. Anyone with a special memory you would like to share or have read, please do so.

Duffy was born in Roswell, NM October 29, 1924 to Dorothy D. Renfro and Frank M. Johnson. He began working at age 14 for the Matador Land & Cattle Co. in Matador, TX. He worked there until he was called to duty serving his country in World War II. While in the Army, he went to help clean up after the attack on Pearl Harbor. His artillery unit was then sent on to the Philippines. After being honorably discharged, he returned to Roswell.

Duffy was a very hard working man, and wore many hats. Two of his most trusted companions were his horse Baker and dog Rusty. His first job back was breaking horses for Miles Wiggins. He also bought a truck and trailer and began hauling cattle. He was a cattle buyer for many local and Texas ranchers. He became friends with many of the ranchers he bought cattle for, and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

In his early years he calf roped and bulldogged in local rodeos, and traveled to rodeos in Wyoming, Washington, Idaho and California. Later in life he loved to team rope with friends Carroll Hargrove and Fred Apache. He also loved to dance to old Cowboy and Western music.

Duffy was preceded in death by his parents, stepdad Breeb Hurst, brother Frank M. Johnson, Jr., first wife Julia, second wife Ellen, stepson Joe Mac Snowden, and step daughter Virginia Word.

Duffy is survived by his daughter Ann Johnson and beloved friend Royce Griggs, step daughter Kay Roberts and husband Kenneth. Grandchildren, Chad Frost and wife Jennifer, Candace Lewis, Mark Roberts, Jimmy Word and wife Liz, Judy De La Rosa and husband Martin. Great Grandchildren Kami Frost, Grady Frost, Trey Lewis, Clay Word, Jessica Kirk and husband Mathew, Megan De la Rosa. Great Great granddaughter Abigail Kirk.

Pallbearers will be Grady Frost, Trey Lewis, Jimmy Word, Martin de la Rosa, Mark Roberts, and Royce Griggs.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Cal Farley's Boys and Girls Ranch or charity of your choice. He loved helping others.

Service

Funeral Service

Ballard Funeral Chapel
910 S. Main St.
Roswell, NM  88203
Monday, February 29, 2016
1:00 pm

Cemetery

South Park Cemetery
3101 S. Main St.
Roswell, NM  88203

Memorial Contributions

Cal Farley's Boys and Girls Ranch
600 SW 11th Ave.
Amaraillo, TX  79101