Norris Johnson 91, born May 3, 1928 in Macon, Georgia, passed away peacefully at his home on October 2, 2019. He is the seventh of nine children of the late Joseph and Mamie Johnson. He is a graduate of South High School, Columbus, Ohio.
Norris is Preceded in death by all his siblings, Matilda (James) Williams, Rosetta (James) Fears, Geneva (Archie) Godfrey, Arthur Lewis, Joe Thomas, Ruby (Wilbur) Leigh, Josephine (Barnell) Steward, Amos (Murna) Johnson. He is survived by his sisters-in-law. Ruth Qualls and Margie Williams.
Norris was married to his loving wife, Bertha Mae (1930 – 2010) for 60 years. From this union they had four children: Norris Virgil (Sue) Johnson (Virgil Lee; Shawaun; Natalia). Tharon Van Johnson (Tharon II, Tequila, Terrelle). Felicia Hope Bond (Marcus, Joseph, Joshua, Jason, Veneicia, Kameisha). Terry Lynn Johnson (1958-2011) (Elijah).
Norris was drafted into the Army in November 1950 to Camp Atterbury Indiana where he later served in the Korean War. He was honorably discharged as Corporal Norris Johnson; awarded a Bronze Star for his bravery and meritorious service.
Norris had a career as a Masonary Technician for Columbus Builders Supply for 30 years. He tried to retire in 1985 but was such an asset to the company that they continued to call on him to train new employees. The owners of Columbus Builders never lost touch with Norris sending him yearly birthday wishes, holiday cards and tokens of appreciation.
Norris played the piano, guitar and sang gospel and blues. This is where his children followed in his musical footsteps.
Norris loved his western movies as you could frequently find him wearing cowboy hats, cowboy boots with spurs and even play guns with holsters.
Norris will be tremendously missed by his surviving children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends and a host of other acquaintances.
Visitation 10:00 AM and Funeral Service 11:00 AM Thursday, October 10, 2019
Interment at Glen Rest.
Virgil: I’ll see you in heaven Dad.
My deepest condolences Fleisha on the passing of your father may he rest with the ancestors
Family,
I am honored and blessed to have known uncle Norris Johnson. He was truly a blessing in my life and I will miss him. My condolences.
Earth can not replace a treasure taken away from us, but God in all his infinite wisdom will comfort us in this time of bereavement. I love you family.
While in college I had the privilege of working under Norris’ supervision at Columbus Builders Supply. At the company Christmas party, Norris told my wife “there is nothing more beautiful than a man, dancing with his woman. Now go dance.” It was such a sensitive, heartfelt statement. We still quote him often. I’m sorry for your loss.
Our thoughts are with the family.
May the support of family and friends be a source of strength and the God of comfort a refuge in your time of need. With caring thoughts.
Dear Ms. Felicia, May your many memories of your Dad help to sustain you at this most difficult time.
Norris Johnson…now, THERE was a man. Norris and I worked together for many years at CBS, and I always appreciated him for his wisdom, his sense of humor, and his work ethic. Who else could pick up a dime with a forklift, and trap rabbits behind the warehouse? Who else ever showed up wearing gun belts, cap guns, cowboy boots with spurs, and gunfighter hat? Who else festooned his Cadillacs and Lincolns with strings of Christmas lights, or watched “Big Valley” on a portable TV as he drove to work? Norris taught me this lesson about black folks and white folks: “Sonny, y’all DIE rich. We LIVE rich.” Rest in peace, Norris, my friend and mentor, with your Bertha Mae and all your loved ones. You’ve earned it. Kindest regards to your family.
to my dear friends Fee, Virgil, Tharon and Terri;
I remember standing in your living room on Heyl playing the tambourine as the family sang. I remember standing in the back yard while Mr. Johnson looked out at us play. I remember thinking what a handsome man while he looked at us. I remember the JOY of knowing another family had devotion at home.
I REMEMBER HIM.
I REMEMBER YOU.
Earth is a little sadder; Heaven a little more joyous.
Praying your strength and comfort