Eric Laverne Johnson

He was born August 12,1933 in Stewartsville, Missouri to Eric W. “Pop” and Mary F. (Smith) Johnson. He married Janice Charlson on June 24, 1955 in Honolulu, Hawaii. She survives along with one son, Bryon C. (Debbie) Johnson of Highland, IL. He leaves behind five grandchildren: Courtney Johnson, Moriah (Andres P.) Johnson, Kayla Blain, Ariana Carter and Emma Johnson-Austin (Brent); and 13 great grandchildren: Kyan Dew, Gabi and Abram Parra, Elgin James, Samuel and Charles Blain, Amaiya and Jerel Smith, Marlee and Aziah Carter, and Everleigh, Elouise, and Elizabeth Austin. He was preceded in death by his parents, and two daughters: Valerie Miller and Kimberly Johnson.

Eric was a United States Air Force veteran also serving in the National Guard and the Reserves. He received his bachelor's degree from Western Illinois University and a master’s degree from Bradley University. He was an educator for Peoria Public Schools for 33 years, starting at Trewyn Middle School and then serving as Principal for Manual High School from June 1970-1993. He was very proud of all of his Ramily!

Eric was a 33rd Degree Scottish Right Mason. He was a dual member of both Grandview Lodge #1112 and Cathedral Lodge #1179 for over 50 years, as well as the Mohamed Shriners and the York Rite bodies. He was an Eagle Scout, Odd Fellow, and was active in many local service groups including Kiwanis club, PARTA, South Side Mission, Boys and Girls Club and local ham radio club to name a few. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church and more recently of Lutheran Hillside Chapel. Eric was a devout husband, father and friend who never met a stranger. You never had to ask him twice to go for a trip; he enjoyed spending time with family, traveling, jazz music, magazines and listening to NPR. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Eric’s life will be Friday November 8, 2024 at 1:00 pm at the Davison-Fulton Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home in Peoria followed by services at 2:00 pm.

A private burial with the family will be in Swan Lake Memory Gardens.

Memorials may be made to the South Side Mission or the Peoria Boys and Girls Club.

You may view Eric’s obituary online at www.Woolsey-Wilton.com