Johnny Edward Ganter passed away at the age of 68 on April 11, 2024 after a brief but serious illness. Johnny was born on October 2, 1955 in Texarkana, Texas and was the only child of Warren and Dorothy Harris Ganter. Both of his parents preceded him in death.

Johnny attended Texas High School where he was a star football player and secretary for his senior class. He graduated from Texas High School in 1974 and has remained a part of the closely connected class of '74. Johnny went on to attend Texarkana Community College and completed a full career of more than 30 years with International Paper Company in Domino, Texas. While building his career, Johnny also married his wife of 44 years, Debra Jamison Ganter, on July 7, 1979. Johnny and Debra built a beautiful life together which included lots of family gatherings, vacations, family worship at Mt. Grove Baptist Church and Heritage Church, and special times with special people.

Johnny lived life to the fullest and never allowed physical setbacks or any other of life's curveballs slow him down or block his joy. Even a few hours before his transition from this life, he and his wife were "laughing and talking" in the hospital room and making plans for when he would return home. Johnny seemed to live his life by the notion that, although we never know what lies ahead for us, we can make each moment count. After retiring from International Paper Company in 2011, Johnny and Debra decided to move from Texarkana, Texas to Texarkana, Arkansas. This is when he discovered a love for the game of golf and cooking delicious meals. He also found great enjoyment when working in his yard for hours, regardless of the weather. He and Debra also loved following the athletic events of their grandchildren and especially traveling to Phoenix, Arizona whenever possible to watch the Suns play and see their daughter who is a member of the staff. All of these pastimes and his beautiful family brought Johnny a lot of joy and pride.

We are grateful for the time that we had with Johnny and are certain we will find peace and smiles in precious memories that can never be replaced. The beauty of his time on earth will live on in the lives of his devoted wife, Debra; his son, Rashad Khalid Ganter, Sr. (Bianca Stevenson Ganter); his daughter, Jamila Diane Ganter; grandson, Rashad Khalid Ganter, Jr.; granddaughter, Jordan Raquel Ganter; special grandpup, Kodak, and other extended family members.

Though Johnny will forever be with us in spirit, his presence will be deeply missed by his family, friends and special classmates. We are forever grateful for 68 years of life, love and memories.