Our beloved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend passed away on February 20, 2026, at the age of 54.
Johnny was born on July 14, 1971, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to John Henry Montoya and JoAnn Kelleher McKinley. He worked for more than 25 years at Anagraphica, where he built lasting friendships and many cherished memories.
Johnny married the love of his life, Rachelle, on July 15, 1994, and together they welcomed their beautiful daughter, Reagan, on June 28, 2005. Johnny’s love for Reagan was immeasurable. She was his pride and joy, and he often said there was nothing he wouldn’t do for her.
Although Johnny and Rachelle’s marriage eventually ended in divorce, he held Rachelle close to his heart until his passing.
It is difficult to sum up Johnny’s life in just a few sentences. He was the life of every party, and his contagious smile and unforgettable laugh will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. To know Johnny was to love Johnny.
Johnny never met a stranger and was always ready for an adventure. He treasured time spent with family and friends and loved being active outdoors. His passions included golf, camping, pickleball, bowling, riding his bicycle, and playing horseshoes or cornhole. His competitive spirit was something everyone admired-he was always the one to get the next game going at family and friend gatherings. He loved creating tournament brackets, organizing volleyball games, and even turning card games like “Pass the Crap” into spirited competitions.
Johnny was a devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the University of Utah football team. He was also an avid music lover and was always ready for the next concert.
Johnny had a deep love for animals. Every dog and cat he owned was fortunate to have him as their companion. He spent years building shelters and feeding stray and feral cats because he could not bear the thought of them being hungry or cold.
Johnny is survived by his daughter, Reagan; his mother and stepfather, JoAnn and Bill McKinley; his sisters, Teresa (Joe) Lopez, Cori (Rick) Garcia, and Jolee (Troy) Bushman; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, John Montoya.
A Celebration of Life honoring Johnny’s life will be on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Starks Funeral Home, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, Utah 84106. Guests are encouraged to park and enter on the north side of the building.
