McMurry University extends its deepest sympathies to the friends, families, and loved ones of Holland Evans ’66 and Ted Johnson —two generous and committed members of the McMurry community who passed away this week.
Holland B. Evans Jr. ’66
A 1966 graduate of McMurry University with a Bachelor of Business Administration, Evans was an active student-athlete and campus leader. He played basketball, participated in intramurals, and was a member of the Ko Sari men’s fraternity. Following graduation, Evans served honorably in the U.S. Army, first in Germany and then in Vietnam, before leading his family’s international logistics business for over 30 years as president.
Evans’ loyalty to McMurry continued long after his graduation. He served 18 years on McMurry’s Board of Trustees, including two years as chair from 2008 to 2010, and was named Trustee Emeritus in 2018 in recognition of his dedication and commitment to the institution. His service also extended to the Alumni Association Board of Directors, where he served for a decade and chaired from 1991 to 1993.
McMurry honored Evans as a Distinguished Alumnus in 2007 for his professional achievements and commitment to the University. In 2018, he and his wife, Floy, were among the inaugural members of the Trailblazers Society, recognizing their lifetime giving of more than $100,000.
McMurry celebrates the life of Holland Evans with gratitude for his decades of service as an alumnus, trustee, donor, and friend.
Ted Johnson
A Midland, Texas native, Johnson served on the McMurry University Board of Trustees from 1978 to 1987 and again from 1989 to 1997, including as chair from 1991 to 1993. In 2019, the Board named him Trustee Emeritus in appreciation of his tremendous service and contributions. Johnson’s steadfast support of McMurry was further recognized in May 2022, when he received the John Wesley Award, which recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary service and philanthropy to McMurry or to the causes and needs that complement the institution’s mission as a Christian university.
Beyond his impact on McMurry, Johnson was deeply devoted to the First United Methodist Church of Midland, where he had a reputation for supporting and affirming all the church’s pastors and their ministries. He generously provided funds to the church’s areas of need and countless hours of service as a member and chair of multiple committees and campaigns.
A loyal McMurry donor for 29 years, Johnson gave faithfully to the McMurry Fund and was a key supporter of the new Garrison United Methodist Campus Center. In 2024, he and his wife, Ann, were inducted into both the Trailblazer Society and the S.M. and Inez Jay Society, honoring lifetime giving of $1 million or more. Members of these societies represent the highest levels of philanthropic commitment to McMurry’s mission and future.
McMurry honors Ted Johnson’s remarkable legacy of leadership, generosity, and faith. His impact will continue to shape the University and its students for generations to come.