He was born in Hendersonville, NC on February 9, 1926 to Albert Ransom and Julia Corpening Johnson. Al proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He studied music at the University of Michigan and graduated with a degree in English from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
After college, Al taught high school choral music in Florence, SC. In his 10 years of teaching, he created a close bond with the students, many lovingly referring to him as “Pop.” In Florence, he also directed a church choir and a symphony orchestra. After moving to Jacksonville, Florida, Al worked for several retail companies and insurance companies, also serving as the long time choir director at St. Paul’s Methodist Church. He ended his career working for Continental Marketing Corporation in Michigan, where he retired as the vice president of sales.
Al is preceded in death by his parents, and his sister, Beth Verdicchio. He leaves behind his wife of 47 years, Lynn Brinson Johnson; children, Wingo (Roxanne) Johnson, Courtney Johnson, Geoff (Valerie) Johnson, Danny Johnson, Candace Royal, and Sherry (Stan Hill) Moss; grandchildren, Cameron, Jonathan, Caroline, Adrian, Alex, Hannah, Hollyn, Loren, Darryle, Stacy, Rachel, and Chase; several great grandchildren; niece, Susan Verdicchio; nephew, Bert Verdicchio and their children; plus many cousins, friends and loved ones.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 9th at 3pm at Frank Vogler & Sons Funeral Home, 2951 Reynolda Rd, with Reverend Dr. John Beeg officiating. There will be a gathering of family and friends following the service.
Memorial contributions can be made to the organization for Macular Degeneration Research (www.brightfocus.org/stopAMD) or Disabled American Veterans (www.dav.org).
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