Henry LeRoy "Roy" Johns, Jr.

Roy Johns passed away peacefully at the age of 100, surrounded by his family at his home in Monroe, Louisiana. A dedicated family man, prominent architect and community leader, Roy’s life was defined by service, excellence, commitment, and faithfulness.

Born in Cedar Grove, Louisiana, to Rev. Henry LeRoy Johns and Persis Means Johns, Roy grew up across several cities in the state. He graduated from Lake Charles High School at age 16 and enrolled at Tulane University in 1941. After serving in WWII he returned to Tulane, married Clarice Slagle in 1946, and finished his degrees in Architecture and Naval Science.

 He had a distinguished service record in World War II. He served in the Pacific arena as the Executive and Commanding Officer aboard sub-chaser USS SC-991 for 18 months and Patrol Craft USS PC-800 for 6 months. He participated in three major campaigns: the invasion of Peleliu in the Palau Islands, Palo Island(Leyte) in the Philippines, and 55 days during the “Kamikaze” phase of the battle of Leyte Gulf. Roy was awarded four battle stars and eight service medals, including the Philippine Republic Presidential Unit Citation for USS SC-991 Service. His was called the Greatest Generation. 

 As a charter member of the Monroe American Institute of Architects, Roy’s architectural career spanned over five decades. After graduating from Tulane in 1948, he moved to Monroe and headed the architectural department at Ford, Bacon & Davis Construction. In 1952, he co-founded Johns and Neel Architects who designed many homes and many buildings during this post war period. Johns & Neel later merged into Heuer, Johns, Neel, Rivers & Webb Architects who designed numerous local landmarks such as the Civic Center complex, post office, airport, banks and multiple ULM buildings, and later specialized in regional shopping centers across 10 western and southern states, notably known for their work with Dillard’s. Ultimately their firm rebranded to become Architecture+. Wanting to downsize, in 1982 he formed his own firm Roy Johns & Associates. He designed projects including the First Methodist Church sanctuary, and contributed to historic preservation efforts such as the restoration of the Ouachita Parish High School. He retired in 2002 after 55 years, his last project being Richwood High School, leaving a legacy of excellence in architecture. 

 Roy was an active member of the Monroe community including the Chamber of Commerce, American Red Cross, Heart Association, United Givers Fund, Salvation Army, and Rotary. He spearheaded city planning initiatives, leading to Monroe's first Master Plan and Zoning Ordinance. He also held leadership roles at First Methodist Church. 

Roy’s energy and vision continued to thrive in retirement, transforming aspirations into community cornerstones. In the early 2000s, while seeking a museum to donate his Navy memorabilia, he became involved with a small nonprofit aiming to build an aviation museum at the WWII Selman Field air navigation school site in Monroe. Quickly named chair, Roy’s leadership and determination turned the group’s dream into reality. Over the next decade, he spearheaded fundraising efforts, securing nearly $1 million, and led hundreds of volunteers to construct exhibits, restore planes, and expand the museum.

Roy worked tirelessly, motivating others, overcoming challenges, and even treating volunteers to Saturday lunches, creating lasting camaraderie. His advocacy efforts secured state support, and by 2007, the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum opened as a 10,000 sq. ft. space with over 11,000 artifacts. Under his guidance, the museum grew into a vibrant hub for education, Veterans activities, and community events, welcoming worldwide visitors. 

 Roy’s contributions earned him numerous accolades, including the Monroe Junior Chamber of Commerce’s “Outstanding Young Man of the Year” award, the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity “Best Alumnus” award, the Monroe City Council “Distinguished Service” award, The Wellspring of Monroe’s “Outstanding Family of the Year” award, the DAR’s “Historic Preservation” award, Tulane Masters of Architecture, and the Monroe Chamber of Commerce’s “Rambin/Silverstein Memorial Civic Award” for his lifetime contributions to Northeast Louisiana. 

 An avid outdoorsman, Roy enjoyed boating, fishing, hunting, and working tirelessly in his yard, where he planted mayhaw trees and made jelly with Clarice. He enjoyed time with his weekly lunch group, the ROMEOS (Retired Old Men Eating Out), and was known for his discipline, punctuality, humor, and dedication to quality in all areas of life. In later years he was rarely seen without his favorite SC-991/PC-800 Navy cap! 

 Roy was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Clarice Slagle Johns, and his sisters, Persis Crawford and Hope Norman. He is survived by his children, Susan Peyton, Henry LeRoy "Hank" Johns III (Sandy), and Anna Parent (Jack); his grandchildren Lori Cobb (Randy), Jonathan Peyton (Kellie), Clay Johns, Stacie Parent (Ian), and Benjamin Parent (Meaghan); and five great-grandchildren, John Thomas Peyton, Matthew Curd, Braxton Parent, and Haiden Parent. 

A celebration of Roy’s life will be held at First Methodist Church in Monroe at 11:30 A.M.on Friday, January 31st, with Rev. John O’Leary officiating. The family will receive visitors beginning at 10:30 A.M. until the time of service. Arrangements are under the care of Mulhearn Funeral Home Sterlington Rd. Monroe.

Pallbearers honored to serve are Victor Covington, Bill Harrison, Clay Johns, Hugh McDonald, Benjamin Parent, John Thomas Peyton, Jerry Smith. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Evelyn “Tiny” Covington Hall for her 47 years participating in and supporting their family; and to his caregivers Lorrie Covington Hayes, Lisa Covington, Victor Covington, Brenda Woods, and Compassus Hospice for their compassionate care. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, 701 Kansas Ln, Monroe, LA 71203, or First Methodist Church, 3900 Loop Rd, Monroe, LA 71201.

"Well done, my good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:21