Johnny Leon Erickson

There are some men whose presence fills a room — steady, confident, and unmistakable. Johnny Leon Erickson was that kind of man.

Born on March 6, 1940, in Fort Worth, Texas, John Erickson lived a life defined by devotion — to his family, his values, and the countless people who crossed his path. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 11, 2025, leaving behind a family and community forever shaped by his presence.

John met no stranger. He was a larger-than-life presence and a natural leader, serving as a father figure to many beyond his own family. Together, he and his wife of 36 years, Peggy Erickson, created a home that was always open — a place of guidance, education, mentorship, and meaningful conversation.

A quarterback at Texas A&M University, John graduated in 1963, carrying forward the leadership, confidence, and competitive spirit that defined both his life and his role as a father. He believed in standards, accountability, and showing up fully — values he modeled every day.

The original girl dad, John raised three daughters with pride, high expectations, and unwavering support. Together, he and Peggy raised their family in Dallas, Texas, instilling a deep respect for education, discipline, and tradition - values his daughters carried forward by proudly following in his footsteps as graduates of Texas A&M.

John Erickson is survived by his daughters, Kelle, Traci, and Ashlee; his sons-in-law, John Shanks, Bill Thomas, and Gregg Magee; and by his greatest joy — his four grandchildren, Cole, Will, Sutton, and Lilee, each of whom carries a piece of him forward.

He will be remembered not only for what he accomplished, but for the lives he shaped — through wisdom freely shared, expectations firmly held, and a love that was generous, protective, and enduring. His legacy lives on in the family he built, the people he guided, and the home that welcomed so many.

The viewing will be held on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Pecan Grove, located at 3124 N. Robinson Drive, Waco, Texas 76706. A funeral procession will follow, with a ceremony held under the pavilion at Robinson Cemetery located at 620 East Stegall Rd in Robinson, Texas 76706 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.