Melvin Johnson

On May 24, 2021 Melvin (Mel) Johnson of Jacksonville, FL transitioned from his earthly home to his heavenly home at 9:52 p.m. He spent his life doing his best to serve the Lord, and on that fateful night Mel was able to meet his Savior face-to-face.

As the 12th born of 15 children to Andrew and Luvenia Johnson, Mel left his home of Tallahassee, FL military-bound at the young, ripe age of 17 years old. As a young enlistee he served his country proudly as a U.S. Army soldier in the Vietnam War. Upon his return he met his North Carolina-born wife-to-be in the beautiful state of Washington, got married, and whisked her away to Jacksonville, FL where he lived out the rest of his days (except for a five-year stent in Atlanta, GA). It is here in Jacksonville, FL that Mel and Trina Johnson reared their three children: Twyla Jackson, Anchetta Sutton, and Jameyel Johnson.

Mel proudly served his country for 34 years in the U.S. Army. He obtained a Master’s degree from American College, and was well-known by many in the community. Aside from his family, one of his greatest joys was serving the Lord by teaching Sunday School at First Baptist Church Downtown Jacksonville. Teaching came natural for him, and many have gleaned from the insight he obtained as he submitted himself to the study of God’s Word.

Mel is survived by his wife, Trina Johnson, his children Twyla Jackson, Anchetta Sutton, Jameyel Johnson, and eight grandchildren: Tierra Johnson, Tamir Johnson, Karlos Jackson, Jr. (Twyla’s children); Josiah Sutton and Jeremiah Sutton (Anchetta’s children); and Lael Johnson, Niya Johnson, and Noah Johnson (Jameyel’s children).

He is survived by 10 of his siblings. Sisters: Elouise Howard, Dorothy Williams, Eunice Johnson, Roberta Walden, Mae F. Williams, Gwendolyn Frison, and Sandra K. Peavy. Brothers: Alpha Johnson, Eddie Johnson, and David Johnson.

Mel is survived by a host of loving in-laws, nieces and nephews. He is also survived by countless neighbors, work and church members, and friends. It is evident that Mel Johnson was well-known, respected, and loved.

“We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8 KJV

It is better that he is present with the Lord, this we know. However, Mel’s presence on Earth will be greatly missed. Until we meet again…

Arrangements by Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL (904) 288-0025.