Michael Banae Johnson Sr's Obituary
Michael Banae Johnson Sr was born to Samuel McMillan I and Artimesia Diann Johnson on January 22, 1972 in Highland Park, MI. Michael was preceded in death by both of his parents, and his two brothers, Daryl Johnson I and Anthony McMillan.
Michael passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on August 31, 2024.
He is survived by his childhood friend and dedicated companion of 32 years, Tashia Marie Carter and (7) children, Damarius Johnson, Cameron Harrell, Kienan Harrell, Trevon Adkins, Michael Johnson Jr., De'Sharrah Johnson and Isaiah Mateo Rodriguez.
He leaves to cherish his memory, 13 grandchildren who absolutely adored him, stepmom, Claudette McMillan, 6 siblings, who loved him dearly, Samuel McMillan II (Janet), Lisa McMillan, Sheila McMillan, Nina Johnson, Luwaisheia Harrell (Keith), and Laurence Robinson, one sister in-law, Carmen Johnson, and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. There is also a core group of friends that surrounded Michael throughout his life that will miss him, Creighton Cain, David Hall Jr, Donell Ashley, Johnny Hampton, Mike Mitchell Sr., Quentin Hampton, Ricky Heard and the JHS Class of 91 “Senior Cut Ups.”
Affectionately known as PawPaw, Michael had an extra special bond with his grandchildren. He always brought them candy and snacks. Michael’s unconditional love and dedication to/for his kids and grandkids was unmatched.
Michael was a beautiful person and he positively impacted many lives. He was fun, outgoing and enjoyed laughing, joking and spending time with family and friends. He was a certified self-made do it yourself-er. It did not matter what it was, he would figure out how to do whatever needed to be done around the house or to a car.
Michael was blessed and resilient. He worked and retired from Liberty Environmental Landfill after surviving an aortic aneurysm seven years ago.
The Jackson community will remember his infectious smile, his exceptional athletic ability and basketball stories from back in the day, the class clown from school, his calm, cool, collected and respectable demeanor from his church background, his intellectual conversations and advice, how handy he was with cars and lawn care, his jokester personality, his bass booming from his speakers as he drove down the street, his contributions to Jackson’s youth as “Coach Johnson,” how helpful and willing he was to the community, always just showing up to do whatever people needed him to do, his raw sense of humor and honesty, and more.
May those memories of Michael continue to thrive so one day we can stop the tears and simply smile as we think about how much positive energy was spread when he was with us. Michael will truly be missed. He lived a good life and he loved his family with all that he had. Now he will rest. We will all love and cherish him forever.
What’s your fondest memory of Michael?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michael?
Share a story where Michael's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michael you’ll never forget.
How did Michael make you smile?
