The son of the late Ira and Hattie Sparks Johnson, SSG Johnson was born in Gloucester, VA, and was a U. S. Army Veteran of 20 years. He also retired following 20 years as a truck driver with Schneider Trucking Company.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Ira Johnson, Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memory, a beloved wife of 41 years, Mrs. Eleanor Childs Johnson; four sons, Michael McCoy, Russell Johnson, Jr., Ronald Johnson (Jackie) and James Simmons; one daughter, DuDonna Jones; five grandchildren, two great grandchildren, a brother, Benny Johnson; a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.