I tried to live in this old world, and I did the best I could, but when God reached out His hand, I grabbed on and was led home. I know God will open wide your understanding as to why these things must be. Dying is only a part of living, therefore celebrate my life...
Chris Darwin Johnson, 63, of Austin, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2024. Born to Jean James and David Walker on October 31, 1961, Chris was the third of five siblings and a lifelong resident of Austin. Chris accepted Christ at an early age at Olivet Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Lawrence V. Wicks. He actively participated in Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and the Royal Ambassadors. Later in life, Chris became a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church and Greater Mount Zion Baptist Church, where he continued his involvement in Sunday School and service ministries.
Chris received his education in the Austin Independent School District (AISD) where he attended Rosewood Elementary, Murchison Junior High, and graduated from the New L.C. Anderson High School in 1980. In 1981, Chris enrolled at the University of Texas at Austin to study law but later shifted his focus, finding his true purpose in serving others and supporting his community. Chris held various roles throughout his life, including manager at PHASES Dinner & Night Club, courier for GSD&M, host at the W.H. Passon Historical Society’s Museum, caterer, and community advocate for the 12th Street/McKinley Heights Neighborhood. His passion for his beliefs and values was evident in every interaction. Chris was presented at the 1982 Beautillion Ball by Jack and Jill of America, Inc. – Austin Chapter, and he served on the Travis County Grand Jury, a role he cherished deeply.
Known for his welcoming smile, firm handshake, and genuine hugs, Chris never met a stranger. His love for cooking, hosting, and socializing brought people together, creating lasting memories. Chris’s creative landscaping and decorating at his home on East 12th Street, were highlights of the neighborhood. People loved to drive by and admire his Holiday themed yards year-round.
We owe a debt of gratitude to Chris for sharing with us his ‘How-To-Do-It’ blueprint to being charismatic and debonair.
Chris’s greatest passion was loving and caring for those around him, especially his mother, Jean James. He ensured everyone in his presence felt welcomed, comfortable, and valued. Chris was preceded in death by his father, David Walker; brothers, George Johnson and Howard Johnson; and his maternal grandmother, Ercel Dickerson and Esther Morgan Jones. He leaves behind his loving mother, Jean James; siblings, Steven Johnson, Sr., and Sheryl Walton; nieces, LaKisha Johnson and Ashley Johnson; nephews, Mark Carter and Steven Johnson, Jr.; three great-nieces, two great-nephews, and one great-great-nephew. He is also survived by Aunts Valoria Porter of Austin, Texas, and Ella Fay Davis (Tommie Davis III) of Los Angeles, California; Uncle Howard Glover, Sr. (Alice) of Dallas, Texas; as well as extended family, special cousins, and dear friends. He shared a special bond with Joyce Simmons and Frankie Lee, who were like aunts to him.
Chris will be remembered for his charisma, generosity, and unwavering love for his family, friends, and community.
