Johnny W. Kilby

Weslaco- Johnny Willis Kilby

December 17, 1953 – December 13, 2024

Johnny Willis Kilby, born on December 17, 1953, in Donna, Texas, to Elwin and Gwen Kilby, passed away peacefully on the evening of December 13, 2024. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Johnny grew up in Donna, Texas, and graduated from Donna High School in 1972. A proud and devoted lifelong member of the Weslaco Elks Lodge, Johnny formed countless enduring friendships. An avid outdoorsman, he found joy in hunting, nature, and the simple pleasures of life.

He took over Kilby Construction at a young age, continuing his father’s legacy with unmatched skill and dedication. A master carpenter and a perfectionist by nature, Johnny could fix anything. His hands built homes, memories, and stories that will be cherished for generations.

Johnny was a man of integrity and many passions. He was the life of the party, a Miller Lite-drinking, honky-tonking, good-time-loving man who relished good company, ice-cold beer, and classic country music. Known for his stubborn streak and meticulous attention to detail, Johnny approached every task with care—whether it was his construction projects, making the bed each morning, or ensuring fairness in all he did.

He is survived by his loving wife, Teri C. Kilby, with whom he built a beautiful life. Together, they raised two daughters, Lynda Kilby and Taryn Kilby. Johnny’s legacy also lives on through his grandchildren: Peyton Poteet (14), Witten Archer (7), Kooper Carpenter (6), and Kamryn Carpenter (3). He is also survived by his brother, Hal Kilby, his sister Pamela Kilby Guzman and her family. Johnny is preceded in death by his parents, Elwin and Gwen Kilby, and his brother, Terry Kilby.

Johnny was always just a phone call away and eager to lend a helping hand. A true friend to all, he was known for his laughter, sarcasm, and warm personality that will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024, from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at McCaleb Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to gather and honor Johnny’s extraordinary life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Johnny’s memory to The Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org to support the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease.

Johnny’s vibrant spirit lives on in the stories he shared, the laughter he sparked, and the lives he touched. His memory will forever bring smiles to all who were lucky enough to know him.