Lelland Johns

Lelland Leroy Johns, 84, a lifelong rancher from Whitehall, Montana, passed away peacefully of natural causes at his beloved Johns Ranch on August 13, 2025. Born February 7, 1941, in Missoula, Montana, Lelland was the devoted son of William Henry and Bertha Elmira Johns.

Lelland dedicated his life to the spirit of the open range, beginning his ranching career at just twelve years old and never looking back. In 1973, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by purchasing the ranch that would remain his pride and joy for the next 52 years. He poured his heart into the land, raising cattle and horses, and found joy in every sunrise and season. For Lelland, ranching was more than a profession-it was a calling-and he worked tirelessly until his final days.

In 1962, he married the love of his life, Marion Carole Scheeler. Together they shared years of laughter, adventure, and partnership, raising three children-William, Susan, and Kristy-and making countless memories at rodeos, on horseback, and fishing or hunting on the ranch. The loss of Marion and their daughter Kristy were heartbreaks he bore with his characteristic resilience.

Known as a proud, dedicated, old-school cowboy, Lelland would give a friend the shirt off his back. He was deeply involved with his community, generously providing stock for local youth rodeos and mentoring the next generation through 4-H programs. Hardworking, loyal, and irreplaceable, Lelland was truly one of a kind.

He is survived by his son, William Johns (Michelle); his daughter, Susan Johns; and his grandchildren, Jay Smith, Ty Smith (Micki), Jess Smith (LaShae), Casey Johns (Janae), Jacob Johns, and Hunter Johns. He also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Zahara Smith and Finn Smith.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 23, at 10 a.m. at the Catholic Church in Whitehall, with burial to follow at Old Whitehall Cemetery and a reception at the K-Bar. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Lelland's memory.

Lelland's boots may be empty, but his legacy will continue to ride on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and never replaced.