Billy Brazos Johnson

Billy Brazos Johnson was born January 24, 1965 in Long Beach, CA. He was the youngest child to Visitacion and Billy Johnson. Billy was raised and spent most of his life in Long Beach, where he graduated from Wilson High School.              Coming from a military family, Billy had a heart of service and enlisted in the Air Force at the age of 19, where he began his career as a firefighter. He served for over three years and was honored as Airman of the Month. His early release from the Air Force was due to an employment opportunity with McDonnell Douglas Aircraft Company as a firefighter there. His goal of becoming a firefighter with a department came when he was hired on by the City of El Segundo Fire Department. While there, he received the Medal of Valor the highest honor given to an active firefighter. Billy had saved a young girl from her burning home while he was off duty. Billy was then offered a position with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, where he served for over 20 years, and worked as a Firefighter Specialist. Billy also was Haz Mat certified & trained as an Arson Investigator.              In 1986, he met Sophia at their local church fiesta. This is where they began their life together that would span 30 years. They married at Knott’s Berry Farm and would celebrate every anniversary there. He lovingly referred to her as his “beautiful bride”, “partner in crime”, “Ghetto Warrior Princess”, “best friend”, and in most recent times “light in the darkness”.  Their union blessed them with two sons, Tyler Daniel Christian and Matthew Riley, both of whom Billy adored. He was an active and present father in all of their school and sports activities. He enjoyed volunteering and took on many roles and positions to stay close to both his boys. Billy enjoyed paddle boarding and poolside BBQ's with family and friends. His tri tip, Korean ribs and Chinese salad were always a request. He loved to make everyone laugh and was dubbed the “Fun Guy”, always with a joke or two. He had a huge heart and loved genuinely. Before his passing, Billy was finding comfort in his faith again.  Billy is survived by his family, his wife, Sophia, his two sons, Tyler and Matthew, and countless family and friends. He will always be remembered for his infectious laugh, his kindness and his hearts desire to serve. He will be sorely missed and fondly remembered. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the love of his family, especially his sons.  In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations made in Billy Johnson’s name to these organizations. Los Angeles Fireman’s Relief Association NAMI ~ National Alliance on Mental Illness Suicide Prevention Lifeline