Eugene Michael Johnson

Known to his many close friends as “MJ”, Michael was a gifted artist and musician from an early age, who played the piano weekly at his church, Disciples Fellowship. So much of his life revolved around music, and he rarely missed an opportunity to catch a live show out on the town.

Michael grew up in Mountain Brook, Alabama, and attended Mountain Brook High School. He was a talented athlete, excelling in varsity football. He earned a BA in psychology at Auburn University. Michael went on to become a compassionate, devoted rehabilitation counselor, and was an inspiration to dozens and dozens of people he sponsored through their recovery. People have said they would not be alive without Michael’s influence in their life.

Michael was a friend to everyone. A bright spirit with a big heart, a joy to be around, with a contagious laugh. His closest friends describe him as genuine, kind, funny, loving, a blessing, generous, loyal, a gift. “To know him was to love him.” He will be dearly missed.

Michael adored his two cats, Shug and Pearl, and had recently taken up a former hobby of keeping an aquarium; he could tell you everything imaginable about each of his fish.

Michael is preceded in death by his father Eugene Johnson, and survived by his mother Helen Johnson.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, September 29th, at 11:15 a.m. at Elmwood Cemetery and friends are cordially invited to attend. (Block 30, Lot 340).

For those wishing to make an honorary donation in Michael’s name, the family suggests: Save Our Strays Feline Rescue Birmingham (https://www.facebook.com/saveourstraysbirmingham/).

(Venmo: saveourstraysbirmingham / code: 0014.) Services are under the direction of Ridout's Valley Chapel (205-879-3401) in Homewood.