July 11, 2023
July 11, 2023
Thinking of you today, and always, Honey. Happy heavenly birthday, my dear brother and friend. I miss you. Nit.
A service to celebrate Ray's life will take place on Saturday, October 25th from 1-3pm at the Peoples Community Center in Tacoma, WA (1602 S MLK Jr Way).
This memorial website was created in loving memory of Ray "Justin" Johnson.
Please feel free to share your memories, photos, and thoughts and invite others who knew and loved him to do the same.
Tributes
Leave a tribute
July 9, 2023
July 9, 2023
Thinking of you as your birthday approaches and celebrating our friendship and shared memories. Love always, Tom
July 11, 2022
July 11, 2022
Regina: Like you, I recalled that it was Ray's birthday today and honored his memory with lighting a candle. In part, I always recall his special day because mine is July 9.
Also, over the weekend, my husband Michael and I attended the PRIDE event in Tacoma for the first time. Far more intimate and engaging than San Francisco, we enjoyed it thoroughly, especially the invocation by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence who gave a heartfelt tribute to those of the LGBTQ+ community who have departed this life experience.
Afterward, we chanced to stop by the Black Lives Matter booth where people we able to leave message tributes to those who had passed and, of course, I left a message to your brother and my dear friend.
I would also like to propose working with you on an article that I proposed to the Historical Society of Federal Way recalling your brother as the first Black student at Thomas Jefferson High school and our relationship. Let me know if you are interested in working on that.
And know that, like you, I am missing him today as you do and so many more who are no longer with us. In loving remembrance, Tom
Also, over the weekend, my husband Michael and I attended the PRIDE event in Tacoma for the first time. Far more intimate and engaging than San Francisco, we enjoyed it thoroughly, especially the invocation by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence who gave a heartfelt tribute to those of the LGBTQ+ community who have departed this life experience.
Afterward, we chanced to stop by the Black Lives Matter booth where people we able to leave message tributes to those who had passed and, of course, I left a message to your brother and my dear friend.
I would also like to propose working with you on an article that I proposed to the Historical Society of Federal Way recalling your brother as the first Black student at Thomas Jefferson High school and our relationship. Let me know if you are interested in working on that.
And know that, like you, I am missing him today as you do and so many more who are no longer with us. In loving remembrance, Tom
July 11, 2022
July 11, 2022
Remembering you on your birthday… that you got younger every year. Dad has now joined you and Mom. The thought that you are all together makes me smile - but does not make me miss you less. ❤️
August 20, 2021
August 20, 2021
Ray: I am honoring the promise I made to you to attend our 59th Thomas Jefferson High School reunion. While you sadly didn't live to attend, you will be with me tonight and tomorrow in my mind and heart ♥! Tommy
September 25, 2018
September 25, 2018
I will never be able to see an ad for a horror movie without thinking of Ray. He did so love those as much as I dislike them. We always had a good laugh about that. A friend that will be forever missed.
July 11, 2018
July 11, 2018
Happy Birthday Ray! I am sure you are in heaven make people laugh like you did on earth.
July 11, 2017
July 11, 2017
Happy birthday, Ray Ray. Always love you. Regina
September 25, 2016
September 25, 2016
Missing my dear Ray. It has been two years and I still can't watch the Academy Awards...every year we watched together by phone with our ongoing critique of the red carpet. I've (mostly) been able to let go of my sadness and focus instead on all of the joy you brought to my life. I miss you, Honey. Glad you're with Mom!
September 25, 2016
September 25, 2016
Miss you, big brother.
July 21, 2016
July 21, 2016
I have been putting this off because I just didn't know what to say. I've known the Jones/Johnsons/Johari most of my life. I still miss Cecilia and my Dad a lot! Ray too of course. I was watching TV and a commercial came on advertising a horror movie. I abhor these types of movies and Ray loved them, the scarier the better. We used to tease each other about ever since junior high school. It made me laugh to remember that, just as Ray was usually laughing. I know he is in a better place with no pain nor suffering.
October 24, 2014
October 24, 2014
I recall years past when Judith Shoshana & I were honored to be guests at Ray's sister Regina's home for various holiday gatherings, including wonderful Thanksgiving dinners.
Ray had mobility challenges that might lead many of us to say, "why bother", but not Ray. Keeping those challenges in mind, as I recall it was often Ray's style to arrive a bit late--always making his entrance with an excited attitude and wide smile, sharing hugs & kisses around the table, and quite often with a fun story to tell that had all gathered around the table in stitches before he was finished!
Ray's joyful approach to living in the midst of serious challenges is one that many of us could benefit by emulating. I know he is going to be very, very deeply missed by all who knew & loved him.
Ray had mobility challenges that might lead many of us to say, "why bother", but not Ray. Keeping those challenges in mind, as I recall it was often Ray's style to arrive a bit late--always making his entrance with an excited attitude and wide smile, sharing hugs & kisses around the table, and quite often with a fun story to tell that had all gathered around the table in stitches before he was finished!
Ray's joyful approach to living in the midst of serious challenges is one that many of us could benefit by emulating. I know he is going to be very, very deeply missed by all who knew & loved him.
October 24, 2014
October 24, 2014
I will be thinking of all of the family today for the memorial. We will keep Reggie, Renekee, Cecilia and Ray in our hearts. Always, Ann
September 28, 2014
September 28, 2014
This song came on Thursday -- it made me believe that Ray was "going home" to Mom. Doesn't make me miss him less. Regina
GWYNETH PALTROW LYRICS
"Coming Home"
It's a four letter word
A place you go to heal your hurt
It's an altar, it's a shelter
One place you're always welcome
A pink flamingo, double wide
One bedroom in a high rise
A mansion on a hill
Where the memories always will
Keep you company whenever you're alone
After all of my running
I'm finally coming
Home - the world tried to break me
I found a road to take me
Home - there ain't nothing but a blue sky now
After all of my running,
I'm finally coming... Home
Well they say it's where the heart is
And I guess the hardest part is
When your heart is broken
And you're lost out in the great wide open
Looking for a map
For finding your way back
To where you belong
Oh well that's where I belong
Home - the world tried to break me
I found a road to take me
Home - there ain't nothing but a blue sky now
After all of my running
I'm finally coming... Home
Home
Home - the world tried to break me
I found a road to take me
Home - there ain't nothing but a blue sky now
After all of my running, I'm finally coming...
After all of my running
I'm finally coming... Home
GWYNETH PALTROW LYRICS
"Coming Home"
It's a four letter word
A place you go to heal your hurt
It's an altar, it's a shelter
One place you're always welcome
A pink flamingo, double wide
One bedroom in a high rise
A mansion on a hill
Where the memories always will
Keep you company whenever you're alone
After all of my running
I'm finally coming
Home - the world tried to break me
I found a road to take me
Home - there ain't nothing but a blue sky now
After all of my running,
I'm finally coming... Home
Well they say it's where the heart is
And I guess the hardest part is
When your heart is broken
And you're lost out in the great wide open
Looking for a map
For finding your way back
To where you belong
Oh well that's where I belong
Home - the world tried to break me
I found a road to take me
Home - there ain't nothing but a blue sky now
After all of my running
I'm finally coming... Home
Home
Home - the world tried to break me
I found a road to take me
Home - there ain't nothing but a blue sky now
After all of my running, I'm finally coming...
After all of my running
I'm finally coming... Home
September 27, 2014
September 27, 2014
Ray, you were one of the smartest men I have ever met and always cheerful and supportive of others. I shall miss you forever. Love, Mara
September 27, 2014
September 27, 2014
My dear justin we will always cherish the fun times our family has spent with you. One of the favorite is bringing you to great wolf lodge last year. I will never forget the smiles on yours and the kids face. Byron and I will always hold a special place for bringing us together and even marry us. Still going strong 9 years later.
As much as it hurts to say good bye we know your in a better place and no longer in pain. I'm so glad the kids were able to see you to say good bye. We will miss you oh so very much.
As much as it hurts to say good bye we know your in a better place and no longer in pain. I'm so glad the kids were able to see you to say good bye. We will miss you oh so very much.
September 27, 2014
September 27, 2014
Ray,
You have been such a bright shining light to so many of us. Over the years no matter how many months had gone by, you would greet me with the biggest smile, hug and warm humor. No matter what the weather, I would leave you feeling like I had been in a sunshiny day.
I sat with you last week and told you some of my favorite stories of the times we had been together. You were never afraid to speak your mind no matter who heard you. I remember once meeting you and you turned to me laughing (and you really do have a great laugh),and said...Jane honey, what did you do to your hair? It wasn't the best cut, but I had to laugh too hearing it from you like that! :-) it was so true. Thank goodness, I got it fixed in a few days!
All joking aside, thank you for all the love and support you have shared with your family. You have been there for my best friend, your sis, when she needed it the most and I have always adored and loved you for that. I miss you, but I know you are close by us all. Love you lots, Jane
You have been such a bright shining light to so many of us. Over the years no matter how many months had gone by, you would greet me with the biggest smile, hug and warm humor. No matter what the weather, I would leave you feeling like I had been in a sunshiny day.
I sat with you last week and told you some of my favorite stories of the times we had been together. You were never afraid to speak your mind no matter who heard you. I remember once meeting you and you turned to me laughing (and you really do have a great laugh),and said...Jane honey, what did you do to your hair? It wasn't the best cut, but I had to laugh too hearing it from you like that! :-) it was so true. Thank goodness, I got it fixed in a few days!
All joking aside, thank you for all the love and support you have shared with your family. You have been there for my best friend, your sis, when she needed it the most and I have always adored and loved you for that. I miss you, but I know you are close by us all. Love you lots, Jane
September 27, 2014
September 27, 2014
What can I say about my dear "Honey"? We have loved and protected each other all of our lives. We've always shared a love of movies, popcorn, music, the theatre, dogs and fashion (remember all of the years at the Ebony Fashion Fair? You'd pick my wardrobe). But, most importantly, you have steadfastly shown me that the glass is always, always, half full and that facing adversity was simply a part of life.
You have taught me that being loving must be a fundamental part of life. Being caring defines who you are. There are no limits to kindness. Laughter nourishes the soul. I have to believe you are in a better place, as I hold on to a piece of your spirit close to me - I miss you, dear one. Nit
You have taught me that being loving must be a fundamental part of life. Being caring defines who you are. There are no limits to kindness. Laughter nourishes the soul. I have to believe you are in a better place, as I hold on to a piece of your spirit close to me - I miss you, dear one. Nit
September 26, 2014
September 26, 2014
Ray
What a wonderful man you were. We were all lucky to have you in our lives if only so briefly.
Love from Judith
What a wonderful man you were. We were all lucky to have you in our lives if only so briefly.
Love from Judith
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
July 11, 2023
July 11, 2023
Thinking of you today, and always, Honey. Happy heavenly birthday, my dear brother and friend. I miss you. Nit.
July 9, 2023
July 9, 2023
Thinking of you as your birthday approaches and celebrating our friendship and shared memories. Love always, Tom
July 11, 2022
July 11, 2022
Regina: Like you, I recalled that it was Ray's birthday today and honored his memory with lighting a candle. In part, I always recall his special day because mine is July 9.
Also, over the weekend, my husband Michael and I attended the PRIDE event in Tacoma for the first time. Far more intimate and engaging than San Francisco, we enjoyed it thoroughly, especially the invocation by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence who gave a heartfelt tribute to those of the LGBTQ+ community who have departed this life experience.
Afterward, we chanced to stop by the Black Lives Matter booth where people we able to leave message tributes to those who had passed and, of course, I left a message to your brother and my dear friend.
I would also like to propose working with you on an article that I proposed to the Historical Society of Federal Way recalling your brother as the first Black student at Thomas Jefferson High school and our relationship. Let me know if you are interested in working on that.
And know that, like you, I am missing him today as you do and so many more who are no longer with us. In loving remembrance, Tom
Also, over the weekend, my husband Michael and I attended the PRIDE event in Tacoma for the first time. Far more intimate and engaging than San Francisco, we enjoyed it thoroughly, especially the invocation by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence who gave a heartfelt tribute to those of the LGBTQ+ community who have departed this life experience.
Afterward, we chanced to stop by the Black Lives Matter booth where people we able to leave message tributes to those who had passed and, of course, I left a message to your brother and my dear friend.
I would also like to propose working with you on an article that I proposed to the Historical Society of Federal Way recalling your brother as the first Black student at Thomas Jefferson High school and our relationship. Let me know if you are interested in working on that.
And know that, like you, I am missing him today as you do and so many more who are no longer with us. In loving remembrance, Tom
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Recent stories
Has it really been seven years?
September 25, 2021
by Regina Jones
Darling Ray Ray - has it really been seven years? As with Mom and Judith, I miss you every single day. There have been so many joyous events where I felt your presence and your love. I’m overjoyed to welcome Rachael’s first child next month; when I meet him, I know you will be there. Love you always
August 20, 2021
My dearest Ray: My heart is forever saddened that you will not be there with me tonight and tomorrow to celebrate together our 50th high school reunion.
I want you to know that I am honoring the promise I made to you to attend the event together. Know that you will be there in my heart and memory.
I still remember your first day at Thomas Jefferson High School when I was designated by our home room teacher, Faith Yates, to welcome you to our school.
I believe that I fell in love with you on that day an have certainly loved you in the intervening years during high school, and when I was attending the University of Washington, and after graduate school.
You were always there with a smile and to say let's get away and have an adventure.
All our adventures live in my memory like when I lived in Tacoma and the woman with the truck ran into your habitually red convertible, or traveling over the Bay Bridge and laughing together at convention and stereotypes.
My darling friend, you taught me more than anyone else how growing up how to be gay and proud and live life to the fullest. My only regret is you will not be here tonight to shock and land laugh and love those who attend our reunion.
But know you were always there for me and I hope, although we finally lost contact, that I loved you and treasured the time that we had.
Until we meet again,
Tom (Tommy) Stewart
I want you to know that I am honoring the promise I made to you to attend the event together. Know that you will be there in my heart and memory.
I still remember your first day at Thomas Jefferson High School when I was designated by our home room teacher, Faith Yates, to welcome you to our school.
I believe that I fell in love with you on that day an have certainly loved you in the intervening years during high school, and when I was attending the University of Washington, and after graduate school.
You were always there with a smile and to say let's get away and have an adventure.
All our adventures live in my memory like when I lived in Tacoma and the woman with the truck ran into your habitually red convertible, or traveling over the Bay Bridge and laughing together at convention and stereotypes.
My darling friend, you taught me more than anyone else how growing up how to be gay and proud and live life to the fullest. My only regret is you will not be here tonight to shock and land laugh and love those who attend our reunion.
But know you were always there for me and I hope, although we finally lost contact, that I loved you and treasured the time that we had.
Until we meet again,
Tom (Tommy) Stewart
"Where's the Clown"
September 26, 2014
by Ed Johns
I went with Ray and the kids to get junk food at McDonalds. I was driving. We pulled up to the drive-through and while I was trying to order for everyone, Ray kept yelling from the back seat: "Where's the Clown?".
I don't think the clerk was amused, but forever after I cannot pull up at a McDonalds without thinking "Where's the Clown?"