B. Johnson Is Parade Marshal

Billy F. Johnson, is the 2003 Grand Marshal of the Shady Dale Rodeo – American Legion Parade.

Born in Greenwood, Miss. in 1955, Mr. Johnson honorably served in the United States Navy for 25-plus years, retiring in 2003 with an exceptional record. His military career included completing “A” school at Port Hueneme CA, in February 1975 and deployment for 13 tours of duty to various assignments throughout the world. He climbed the ranks, becoming a Command Master Chief Petty Officer, which is a Senior Enlisted Advisor.

Less than one percent of the Navy’s personnel make it to the rank of Master Chief and those who do are among the best and the brightest in their respective specialties. Completing years of rigorous training, he earned a commission in the Navy Construction Battalion—better known as the Seabees. The engineering, design, and construction arm of the Navy and one of the most respected groups amongst sailors and marines for their vital contributions to those fighting to protect the freedoms we enjoy.

Billy married the love of his life, Deborah Minyard in 1975 and they were blessed with three children. They moved to Jasper County in 2003 to live on the land they purchased on Barnes Mountain Road. Over the next 18 years, Billy continued his service to his community, stepping up wherever needed.

Billy is committed to serving his community; even in 2021, when his home burned to the ground just weeks before Christmas, and losing his wife in January 2022.