John Charles Johnson was born in Louisville, Kentucky on December 19, 1935 to Charles and Lillian Johnson. He was the first of seven children. He was followed by five brothers and one sister. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dora; parents; his son, John Jr.; grandson, Larry; and all of his siblings, except his brother, Howard Johnson.
Johnny was a descendent of author and playwright, Alex Haley, author of "Roots," of whom he was very proud. He also got to experience a bit of history through his great-grandfather, who was a freed slave.
Johnny was educated in the Jefferson County Public School system and attended Central High School. Johnny had a great work ethic and during that time, he was a member of the Boy Scouts, worked in a grocery store, delivered newspapers, and held other jobs to help the family with expenses.
In 1952, at the age of 17, he was hired as a dishwasher at the acclaimed Pendennis Club. Through hard work and tenacity, he was constantly promoted until he made it to the top position of Maitre'd. And after that, he became Assistant Manager. After 50 years of service, he retired, however that did not stop Johnny. He remained with the Pendennis Club as General Manager and then as Director of Member Relations and travelogue for over 500 members for an additional 18 years, for an impressive total of 68 years of faithful service.
On June 23, 1956, he married the love of his life, Dora Francine Croomes and to this union, two children were born - John Charles, Jr. and Jacqueline Denise. He and his family attended St. Louis Bertrand Catholic Church.
Johnny loved the outdoors and enjoyed taking his family camping. He relished his time fishing and hunting. He was skilled with his rifle and bow and arrow. Johnny was a successful deer hunter and had the spoils to prove it!
Johnny was a shining example to his daughter, Jacqueline. She thought he was an example of what a man should be. Johnny loved his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Johnny completed his journey on earth and took flight to his Heavenly home on Sunday, November 13, 2022.
He leaves to cherish his memories, his daughter, Jacqueline Owens; 6 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of relatives and friends. His family would like to show special recognition to his oldest niece, Deborah Harrison, who helped take care of him.
Visitation will be Saturday, November, 19, 2022, at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions, Southwest Louisville Chapel, 10304 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY, from 10am-12pm with a celebration of John's life beginning at 12pm.
John will be laid to rest at Green Meadows Cemetery, 3800 Shanks Lane, Louisville, KY.
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