Lydia B. Johnston

Lydia Billie Johnston passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, at the age of 90. Born on November 3, 1935, in Brownsville, Texas, to Joseph and Lydia Boccino, she was known affectionately by many as Billie. Her life was defined by kindness, courage, and unwavering devotion to her family.

Preceded in death by her parents, her husband John, her son David, her two sisters and their spouses, and three brothers and their spouses, Lydia remained the beloved matriarch of a large and loving family. She is survived by her three daughters, Billie Jo Lacey (George, deceased), Sheron Pieper (Kevin), and Diana Atkins (Rusty); ten grandchildren, Amber, Eric, Amy, Aarron, Gabriel, Mark, Donald, Dustin, Allen, and Amanda; sixteen great-grandchildren; and thirteen great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

For many years Lydia served students at John Jay High School, where she was fondly remembered as the “Soda Lady.” At home she was the heart of the family, always offering a warm smile, a word of encouragement, and the comforting assurance that everything would be alright. She found happiness in family barbecues, playing cards, bowling with her husband, reading romance novels, watching soap operas and westerns, and creating beautiful pieces through crocheting and sewing. Her sense of humor and gentle strength lit up countless family gatherings and left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

Lydia Johnston lived with love, courage, and selflessness. Her spirit endures in the hearts of her family and all those whose lives she touched.