Beloved Brownwood Foreman Johnny Salazar Sr. Passes Away at 69

The longtime BNSF Railroad employee and devoted family man is remembered for his kindness and community spirit.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:43pm

An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of a group of people gathered together, with soft, warm pools of light and color creating a sense of intimacy and emotion.The vibrant community of Brownwood gathers to celebrate the life of a beloved foreman and family man whose kindness and generosity left a lasting impact.Del Rio Today

Johnny Manuel Salazar Sr., a 35-year foreman at BNSF Railroad in Brownwood, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on April 2, 2026, at the age of 69. Salazar was known for his dedication to his job, his loving family, and his community involvement, and is survived by his wife, five children, and numerous grandchildren.

Why it matters

Salazar's passing marks the loss of a respected and beloved member of the Brownwood community, where he was known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his family and work. His life story reflects the values of hard work, faith, and community that have long defined the region.

The details

Salazar, born in 1956 in Del Rio, Texas, spent over three decades working as a foreman at BNSF Railroad, where he earned the respect of his colleagues. Outside of work, he was deeply devoted to his family, enjoying activities like fishing, music, and spending time at the ocean. Salazar was married three times, first to Delia Stamper, with whom he had five children, and later to Linda Brooks, who survives him. He was also an active member of the Brownwood Community Church.

  • Salazar passed away peacefully at his home in Santa Anna, Texas on April 2, 2026.
  • He was born on July 18, 1956 in Del Rio, Texas.
  • Salazar married Delia Stamper on January 1, 1986 in Brownwood.
  • Delia Salazar passed away on March 2, 2017.
  • Salazar married Linda Brooks on June 12, 2021 in Brownwood.

The players

Johnny Manuel Salazar Sr.

A 35-year foreman at BNSF Railroad in Brownwood, Texas, known for his dedication to his job, family, and community.

Delia Stamper

Salazar's first wife, with whom he had five children.

Linda Brooks

Salazar's second wife, who survives him.

Brownwood Community Church

The church where Salazar was an active member, reflecting the importance of faith in his life.

BNSF Railroad

The company where Salazar worked as a foreman for over 35 years.

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What’s next

The Salazar family will host a visitation at 12:00 p.m. followed by a funeral service celebrating Johnny's life at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, April 6, 2026, at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel in Coleman, Texas. Interment will follow in the Santa Anna Cemetery.

The takeaway

Salazar's passing marks the loss of a respected and beloved member of the Brownwood community, where he was known for his unwavering commitment to his family, his work, and his faith. His life story reflects the values of hard work, kindness, and community that have long defined the region.