We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of John “Johnny” Prestridge, a man of great character and resilience, who lived a full and vibrant life. passed away July 4, 2024, at the age of 72.
Born on June 12, 1952, in Amarillo, Texas, John was the embodiment of the phrase, “You can take the boy out of Texas, but you can’t take Texas out of the boy.” He embraced his roots and spent his entire life in his beloved hometown.
Johnny loved to travel, which led him to travel to every state in the United States and beyond. John had a distinguished career as a Railroad Engineer with BNSF, where he was not just an employee, but a pivotal part of a community that moved the nation forward. The train tracks were his second home, and he navigated them with the same ease that a ship captain sails the seven seas. As the famous quote by John D. Rockefeller states, “I believe that every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity, an obligation; every possession, a duty.” John embraced this ethos throughout his career, ensuring that the trains he oversaw ran smoothly and safely.
John was a devoted father to his son, Brandon, and a loving brother to his sister, Beverly Montgomery. His strong sense of family was also extended to his niece, Annalisa Minor. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis Prestridge and Bobbie Harmon, and his wife, Leann Prestridge. John was a beacon of strength, resilience, and unwavering love for his family, creating a legacy that will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those he loved. As Henry David Thoreau said, “The death of a loved one is not the end of their story in your life. Their story continues in your heart, in your memory, and in your character.”
Johnny was preceded in death by his wife Leann, mother Bobbie Jean and father, Louis “Sunny” Prestridge.
He is survived by a son Bradon and wife Angelica Prestridge; grandson Tristin; sister Beverly Montgomery, and a niece, and nephew.
As we bid farewell to John, we invite you to share your memories, stories, and photographs of him on his memorial page. His life was filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments, and we would be grateful if you could help us celebrate his remarkable journey.
spent 40 years on that railroad with him,countless hours contemplating what we wanted to do . What we wanted to see and have. Thats a heart breaker for me.
I also worked with John for 40 years and loved being on the same crew with him dozens and dozens of times either to Wellington, Kansas or Enid, Oklahoma. Have great memories of working in the Santa Fe yard back in the 70’s with him many shifts and he was always happy and smiling and joking around. He was a true gentleman!
Johnny and I were reunited November 2017. We knew one another when we were young kids. Our relationship started at a very crucial time for both of us. We shared many, many laughs, plans and adventures. We loved each other deeply and I will be forever grateful. I will always cherish the memories and his gentle and unconditional love for me. He was one of a kind. I will remember and love him forever! I am heartbroken and I will miss him always, I LOVE YOU, JOHNNY♡♡♡
John was the most positive “emotionally level” person I have ever met….without John here with us things change…RIP John will see you again you will be on our mind
and in our hearts always….
Johnny was a good brother. We had so much fun growing up. Some of my favorite memories were playing out side with no fancy toys. We would play in the dirt with cars and make roads to drive them on, he would even with my dolls. When he was maybe 7 he would put our Mom’s clothes and high heels and put on a show. He would make me laugh so hard it would make me cry. He also was a topical brother. Always beating up on me. I will miss him so much, but I will always have the memories.
When we lose a loved one, especially a parent that “HITS” really deep!! My father always had a sense for adventure and exploring the unknown. When you look up the definition of “OUTDOORSMAN”you’ll see a picture of him. I will always remember the many trips to the mountains,a place he dearly loved!! May you find peace and comfort and always remember “I love you”..