John Edward "Johnny" Carlson

John Edward Carlson, Jr., affectionately known as Johnny, passed away surrounded by his family on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo, following a lengthy and courageous battle with complications from diabetes. He was 77 years old.

Born in Fort Worth on January 20, 1949, to John Edward (John Ed) and Marjorie Neely Carlson, Johnny grew up in San Angelo and was a 1967 graduate of Central High School. He went on to pursue his education at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, where his lifelong love of music truly took center stage. As a proud member of the university's World Famous Cowboy Band, Johnny had the distinct honor of marching in the 1970 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. While in Abilene, Johnny also served as Music Education Director at the Abilene State Supported Living Center.

He served his country honorably in the United States Army from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s. Stationed at Fort Sill in Oklahoma, he naturally found a home in the Army Band, where he honed his skills by arranging some of the band’s songs, and even drove the bus!

Following his military career, Johnny returned to San Angelo, dedicating nearly two decades to the U.S. Postal Service.

Johnny was a multi-talented musician and an incredible vocalist. While he was highly skilled at playing the trombone, French horn, and electric bass, among other instruments, the piano was his true passion. Throughout his life, his remarkable piano skills graced countless audiences and church congregations. He provided special music services to San Angelo-area churches, including First Baptist Church, and devoted many years of service as the pianist and musical director for the Business Men’s Bible Class. He also participated in several musical productions at Angelo Civic Theatre over the years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Ed and Marjorie; his sister, Cheryl Carlson Edgington; and his niece, Leslie Edgington Boulter.

Johnny’s memory will be cherished by his children, Christy Carlson of Austin and Andrew Carlson of Abilene; his brother-in-law, Larry Edgington of San Angelo; his niece, Vickie Edgington Perry; and several great-nieces and nephews. Christy and Andrew wish to extend their deepest, most heartfelt gratitude to Larry, Vickie, her husband Deryll, and their daughter Kaylee for their invaluable love and assistance in caring for Johnny in his later years.

Honoring his final wishes, Johnny will be cremated, and interment will be scheduled at a later date. Also, per his request, no public ceremony is planned. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Johnny’s name to the charity of the donor’s choice.