Ronald Lyndon Johnson's Obituary
Ronald Lyndon Johnson was born on Friday, January 31, 1958. Ronald was the sixth child and fourth son of the late Herbert Richard and Marie Velma Johnson, who preceded him in death. He was affectionately known as “Yon” by his family.
While attending Joseph Campau Avenue Church of God, Ronald gave his heart to the Lord and became a faithful member until the Lord called him home.
God blessed Herbert and Velma with 10 children that became The Johnson Sports League, an idea created by their oldest son, Richard. This first-rate team played football, basketball, baseball, and ran track. Momma Johnson even made uniforms for the players and the cheerleaders as well! And just like a real high school game there were refreshments and screaming fans (the neighbors)—the atmosphere was electric!
Ronald attended elementary, middle and high school in Highland Park, Michigan. After graduating from Highland Park High School in 1977, he went on to attend Henry Ford Community College. While attending high school, he met June Hodges. June’s relatives and the Johnsons had already been friends for some years. After June started attending Ronald’s church, they began dating and would later marry on June 2, 1990.
Ronald had a couple of pastimes that he loved--tinkering with cars and driving, which he enjoyed so much that not only did he become the unofficial family chauffeur, but he would often drive non-family members to their various appointments or engagements. From time to time, he also chauffeured the late Rev. Dr. Johnnie Mae Brown, a traveling evangelist. She had no worries with Ronald at the wheel! She knew she would reach her destination to preach the Gospel!
Ronald was an extremely conscientious worker that anyone would have been proud to have as an employee. He worked a variety of jobs; his first was at Bill Kemp Cleaners and later worked for Woods Industrial Cleaners. He went on to work as a custodian at East Bethlehem Lutheran Schools. Ronald’s longest stint was his job at MNP Corporation. After leaving MNP, he worked with Nate’s Services where his boss, Nate Granger, raved about Ronald’s work ethic. He would later go on to work at the Westin Hotel and LA Fitness.
Ronald was a gentle soul as well as a protector and enjoyed being around his family. Love seemed to ooze out of his pores, and he often poured it on his many nieces and nephews whom he absolutely adored!
Ronald drove the church bus, picking up anyone who needed a ride to and from church. Ronald was always patient with his passengers, truly displaying the Daddy Johnson kind of love that was instilled in him. In case you didn’t know, Daddy’s favorite scripture was……well, let’s say it together: “LET BROTHERLY LOVE CONTINUE!” Ronald took this to heart!
Ronald used his God-given gifts in excellence and with a smile! He ushered, sang in the choir, and performed security. He often assisted the pastors, senior citizens, children, and even cleaned; basically, wherever there was a need, you could count on Ronald to be there to lend a helping hand. He truly displayed Colossians 3:23 that says, “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” It did not matter the job; he wanted the recipient of his kindness to be pleased and God to be pleased. Well done, good and faithful servant!
Ronald was also a proud member of the Johnson family band which was formed by his big brother Charles. The band, simply known as “The Johnson Family,” travelled from church to church, event to event blessing everyone that had the opportunity to listen to their beautiful sound. Ronald proudly played the clarinet during this time.
In later years, the Johnsons put down their instruments and formed a singing group. Their name? You guessed it……The Johnson Singers! Ronald did his part singing tenor in helping the family form a tight harmonic family sound.
After being in the hospital and rehab off and on for four years, Ronald grew tired, his body becoming weaker. His life here on earth was nearing the end. On Sunday, April 16, 2023, while at DMC Sinai Grace Hospital, Ronald took his last breath and went to be with the Lord.
Yon, your nine siblings love you and miss you more than we could ever express. You were the best brother any of us could have ever had. You will forever remain in our hearts!
Ronald is survived by his wife, June; three sisters, Shenita, Linnae and Linda; one sister-in-law, Paula Lynn Robinson; six brothers, Herbert Richard, Jr. (Jean), Charles (Venita), Arthur (Val), Carl (Sandi), Gerald Reuben (Tina), and Alvin (LaTachia). He leaves a strong legacy of love and support to his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Ronald’s love will always be remembered by his several aunts and uncles whom he treasured greatly. He also leaves to cherish his memory his four bonus sisters, Joy Ancton, Joyce Brinkley, Tonja Henry, and Trina Moore; a bonus brother, Pastor Kevin Cornwell, as well as his many god brothers and god sisters.
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