The son of the late J.W. Sr., and Daisy Hollis Johnson he was born in Upatoi, Georgia. He retired from FieldCrest/Pillowtex Mills after over 30 years of service. He was a member of Lewis Memorial Baptist Church.

Other than his parents he was preceded in death by three brother, Robert Johnson, J.W. Johnson, Jr, and Willie C. Johnson. Survivors includes, two children, Angela Johnson (Zarome Lakey) and Alfred Johnson; six sisters, Loretta Williams, Lizzie Hunter (Willie), Ella Benton, Annie Chisholm, Verna Golden and Carolyn Miller (Lindsey); three brothers, Joe Johnson, Charlie Johnson(Vicky), and Lonnie Johnson; one aunt, Jennie Harper; a loving and devoted friend, Elaine Morgan; loving Godchild, Desi Morgan; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.