Johnny Lane Williamson

Johnny Lane Williamson, beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, godfather, and neighbor, passed away peacefully at the age of 76, last Friday at Cone Health Wesley Long Hospital, after a two-year battle with cancer. Known for his generosity of spirit, mischievous humor, love of the outdoors, and sense of community, the native of Greensboro was beloved by the many people he touched throughout his life.

Driven by a desire to help people and a sense of adventure, Johnny served as a Greensboro Police Department officer and founding member of its bomb squad, Army reservist in the 457th Civil Affairs Battalion and, in his final years, Meals on Wheels volunteer driver. He infused all of these endeavors with a trademark blend of kindness and irreverence, always brightening the days of the people he served and served with.

Johnny was born in Greensboro to police detective Oscar Williamson, Sr., from whom he learned the joy of being a friend to all, and textile worker Louise (McCauley) Williamson, from whom he learned the value of hard work. At an early age, Johnny displayed a dynamism and independence which would define his path through life, from a first job at 14 years old vending Cokes and hot dogs alongside his older brother in the stands of the Greensboro Coliseum, through years of water-skiing, and a late career as a private investigator.

He spent his last decade living in his dream home, a log cabin of his design on 17 acres of forest in Caswell County. There he spent many happy days walking along his creek with family and pets, monitoring wildlife, observing the night sky by telescope from his meadow, woodworking, and watching every Atlanta Braves game he could. A friend to all his neighbors, Johnny was quick to escort a friend to a doctor’s appointment, jump on his tractor to clear a downed tree, or share his much-acclaimed barbeque.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years Carolyn Williamson, daughter Paige Griffin from a prior marriage and husband Carlos, brother Oscar Williamson, Jr. and wife Sandra, granddaughters Sofia Griffin and Camila Griffin, goddaughter Ashley Herman and husband Nate, goddaughter Kimberley Ganoe, and his best four-legged friend Harley. He is pre-deceased by godson Aaron Ganoe.

Donations in Johnny’s memory may be sent to the Animal Protection Society of Caswell County in Yanceyville and the Randolph County Honor Guard.

A visitation will be held at Hanes Lineberry Funeral Home (6000 W. Gate City Blvd., Greensboro) from 12:00 to 1:30 pm on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, where guests will be welcome to volunteer oral or written memories of Johnny. A service will begin at 1:30 pm where the memories of Johnny will be remembered. Immediately thereafter, he will be interred with military honors beside his parents at adjacent Guilford Memorial Park.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.haneslineberryfhnorthelm.com for the Williamson family.