Gary Alvin Johnson

Gary Johnson Main Photo

Gary A. Johnson, age 71, a native of Elyria Ohio, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, August 1, 2020 in Columbus, Ohio where he has resided since the late 80’s.

He was born on April, 26, 1949 to the late Albert E. Sr. and Etta Mae Johnson. Gary was a 1969 graduate of Elyria High School, where he received many accolades for dominating the wrestling mat and track & field events. Gary received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work from Wilmington University, where he earned the highest honor of Summa cum laude.

Early in his career, Gary was employed at Ford Motor Company as a laborer and The Beacon group home for boys as a residential counselor/advisor. His continual impact on the lives of teenage boys led to him acquiring an assistant coach position for both EHS and Southview High School wrestling teams, where he had the honor of training several state champions.

Gary’s love for physical fitness involved a lifetime commitment of participating in various sports, ranging from boxing, running, wrestling and weight lifting. He entered several tough man competitions, in addition to a few decathlons.

His true calling in life was his passion for art, in which he had an innate ability to draw and paint masterpieces of some of America’s greatest civil rights heroes, including Muhammad Ali and Martin Luther King. Of all his accomplishments, what brought Gary his greatest sense of pride was being an adoring father to his daughter, step children, and granddaughters. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

He will be forever loved and cherished by his daughter, Erycka R. Johnson-Allen of Columbus, OH; sisters Rose A. Echols of Bucyrus, OH, Cathy E. Finn of Minneapolis, MN; brothers Tim A., Albert (Butchie) E. Jr. and Herbert L. Johnson all of Elyria; step-sisters Neldra Maben and Marita (Tony) George both of Elyria, and Marnita Seymore of Columbus; step-sons Tracy E.(Judy), Walter (Pedie) E. Jr. and Richard E. Moody all of Elyria; step-daughter Wytina Johnson of Columbus; granddaughters Ar’yana N. and Ky’leana M. Allen of Cleveland, OH; along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, maternal and paternal grandparents, Gary was preceded in death by his beloved step-mother Ann Johnson; and nephew Lucius A. Johnson Sr.

To every thing there is a season, and a time to
every purpose under the heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to
plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 KJV

Memorial Service 1:00 PM Saturday, August 29, 2020 at Ely Square Park 400 Broad Street Elyria, Oh 44035.

Family is requesting that all flowers and cards be sent to 256 Windsor Drive Elyria, Ohio 44035.

Condolence Messages

  1. We would like to extend our condolences to the family. Continue to rely on God and know that he hears your prayers, because he cares for you. Thinking of you all.

  2. My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Gary. I have fond memories of the times spent with he and Tim while growing up in Elyria. May he rest in peace and the family be blessed.

  3. GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN,
    TRONE & PATTIE HALL, ELYRIA

  4. My condolences to the family! I’ll remember our times in Ely Village.

  5. Debbie and Glen McAfee

    We go way back Gary a lot of fun times and memories brings a smile to my face. May you Rest In Peace. Our deepest sympathy to the family.
    Glen and Debbie McAfee

  6. Gary will miss our talks about wrestling, you had a great eye and you could see talent in kids. Rest easy Gary.

  7. Lanette Wingard

    My sincere condolences to the Johnson family. Gary was a kind spirit, and good athlete, and a nice guy. May he rest in peace

  8. My most sincerest Prayers and Condolences to each of You. May Our Lord Grant you each the Peace that Passes All Understanding!

  9. Gary was my assistant wrestling coach at Elyria High School. He was special–all of the wrestlers loved him–he was very loyal, a hard worker, dedicated to all involved in the program and Elyria High School. He left wonderful memories to me and each individual wrestler. Thanks, Gary. Prayers and Thoughts to Gary and his family.

  10. Leonard Whitfield

    Condolences to the family,my long time friend,great athlete,artist,rest easy my friend!

  11. Charles and Matilda Inman

    Our condolences and prayers to the Johnson family.

  12. Bonnie Alston and Family

    My deepest condolences to the Johnson family

  13. William I.(Billy) Taylor Jr.

    Tim and Family: Although words cannot begin to ease the sorrow of your loss. Please know that there are so many who care. May GOD’S promise of eternal life and the memories of your loved one bring you comfort and peace… William I.(Billy) Taylor Jr., Louisville, KY

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