John William Carnagey, Jr., was born April 29, 1946, in East Chicago, Ill. He went to be with his Heavenly Savior on May 30, 2022, at the age of 76.

His parents Jean and John both served in World War II.

John was a precocious child who was interested in music. At age five, he began piano lessons, a passion he followed all his life. He was first chair bassoonist in the Texas All State Orchestra for four years. He was also a substitute bassoonist for the Houston Symphony.

He graduated from Westbury High School in 1963. He received his BA in Theology and Piano from Houston Baptist College.

He served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam from 1963-1964.

John met Leah at a local Baptist church, and was smitten. They were married Sept. 1, 1967, while in college.

John was a band director at Northwood Junior High School, and loved teaching music to the students.

After college, John and Leah then went on to form their own band, and traveled all over the U.S., Canada, and Switzerland. John answered the call to the ministry, and ministered in Oklahoma, Missouri, and Texas.

Along the way, he became fascinated with the new field of computers. He built up a computer business in Alpine, Texas.

He also never had a chocolate chip cookie he didn’t like!

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Leah; son Tim and daughter-in-law Michelle; and grandson Johnny.

Many folks who knew and loved John will miss his humor, his Bible teaching, and his willingness to help anyone in need.

Donations may be made in John’s memory to the Cross Church in Yakima, Wash.