Francis W Johnson, Sr

Francis W. Johnson, Sr., 79, of Cairo died Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Bickford Cottage in Grand Island. Funeral service will be 10:30 AM Friday, February 27, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Cairo with Cat Love officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery. Visitation will be 5-7 PM the First Baptist Church of Cairo. Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. Apfel Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be directed to www.apfelfuneralhome.com.

Francis was born on December 20, 1946, in Plainview, NE, to Donald and Hannah (Horstman) Johnson. He grew up and attended school in Trinidad, CO. Francis moved to Grand Island, NE, and he graduated from Grand Island Senior High School in 1965.

On July 3, 1965, Francis was united in marriage to Shirley Argent in Lincoln. The couple lived in Lincoln and later moved to Grand Island and then to Cairo. Francis worked at the Ordnance Plant and then retired from Case New Holland in 2004.

He was a member of Cairo United Methodist Church. His greatest joy came from serving the community in the Cairo Fire Department and QRT. He was also a past board member of the Happy Jack Chalk Mine. Francis had an amazing work ethic working multiple jobs, but he also enjoyed outdoor activities of golfing, fishing, and camping.

Survivors include sons: Francis “Bill” (Laurie) Johnson of Cairo, NE and Christopher (Crystal) Johnson of Cairo, NE; grandchildren: Beau, Nolan (Madison), Alex, Thomas, Benjamin (Taysha), Sydney, Lacey; great grandchildren: Adeline, Brooks, Ella; brother, Robert E. (Chet) Johnson of Loveland, CO; sisters-in-law: Connie (Roger) VanBibber of Boelus, NE, Gail Johnson of Deland, FL.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Shirley in 2015; brother, Randy Johnson; and special aunt, Leona Briggs.