On a warm and windy day, 26 family members and friends of Sam Johnson gathered Sunday to celebrate his 70th birthday.

The surprise party was at his nephew’s house in El Dorado. Guests enjoyed a cookout and yard games for kids.

Sam’s daughter, Tonya Hodson, formerly of Marion, was unable to attended because she is a pilot stationed in West Virginia. She was able to video chat with her father later in the day.

Sam’s other daughter, Tiffany Harper, attended along with grandchildren, and many others.