Johnny Ray Lane

Johnny Ray Lane was born on July 23, 1933, in Balko, Oklahoma.  He was the youngest child, and only son, of Samuel and Maud Lane.  Johnny learned about life on a farm from a young age and was proud to work the land that his family had homesteaded.  In 1958, Johnny married Virginia McLanahan and together they raised two sons, teaching them to love and respect what God provides from the land.

Johnny became a Christian at a young age and was a deacon at Balko Baptist Church for many years.  He was named an honorary member of the FFA.  He loved to go to the lake for boating and camping with his family.  He was a friend to many, meeting them almost daily at “the corner” to exchange the news of the day. Johnny was an avid Sooners fan and he also enjoyed cheering for the OKC Thunder. For over twenty years Johnny and Virginia spent winters in Old Mexico and then Zapata, TX, where he would go fishing and make many more friends.  Every chance he got was spent being actively involved in his grandchildren’s lives trying to share his passions with them.

Johnny was a faithful Christian witness as well as a loving husband, father, and Papa who continued to farm, raise cattle, and spend time with family and friends until he transitioned to his eternal home on July 22, 2019.  He is survived by his wife of 61 years,  two sisters – Edith Zonker of Tulsa and Geneva Eiland of Edmond, a son, Kelley (Lori) of West Chicago, IL, a daughter-in-law, Brada Hargues of Balko, seven grandchildren – Court (Carrie) Lane of Lake Charles, LA, Chisum Lane of Chickasha, Andy (Morgan) Lane of Wolfforth, TX, Anna (David) Tart of Little Rock, AR, Brendon, Brice and Barrett Lane of Balko, and a great-granddaughter, Annie Grace Lane of Lake Charles, along with many nieces and nephews.  We will miss him greatly, but expect to be reunited with him in eternity.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, LaVaun, a niece, Gayle, and his son Brad.  A private burial service for the family will be held Monday at 10:30 am at Bethany Cemetery.  The memorial service at Balko Baptist Church will be Monday, July 29, at 1:00 pm.  Memorial gifts may be made to the Gideons.