Bernie D Johnson

Indian Harbour Beach

Col. (ret.) Bernie D. Johnson, beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on May 30, 2011 at the Indian River Center.

He was born on August 30, 1918 in Enterprise, AL, the son of Thomas L. and Dewey Lee Johnson (both deceased), and brother of Sara Johnson Heath and Thomas Edward Johnson.

In 1942, he married the love of his life, Mary Ellen Glenn of Allen, AL. They embarked on a lifetime of travel and adventure, which they shared for over 64 years. In 1970, they retired to Indian Harbour Beach.

His military assignments took them to faraway places—Germany, Virginia, New Orleans, Japan, Utah, Okinawa, and Pennsylvania. He had many positions of command including Post Commander of Camp Leroy Johnson in New Orleans, Commander of Naha Port on Okinawa, and Post Commander of IGMR in Annville, PA.

During WWII he served under Gen. George S. Patton in the Third Army's 4th Tank Destroyer Group. He earned numerous awards and decorations in his 31-year career including the Bronze Star, the Army Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and several campaign medals. Upon retirement he received the Legion of Merit.

Col. Johnson was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He enjoyed many hobbies including golf, bridge, fishing, cooking on the grill, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. His generosity was legendary as was his love of life.

He was predeceased by his wife of 64 years, Mary Ellen Johnson. He is survived by daughters, Ellen Marie Davis, Janet Lee Weber (husband John); son, Bernie D. Johnson, II (wife Terry); and by grandchildren, Jason Jefferson Davis (wife Nancy), Allyson Marie Weber, Amy Ellen Weber Ruff (husband David), Bernie D. Johnson, III, George Henry Johnson; and great-grandson, Jake Jefferson Davis.

Bernie Johnson was one of the best and brightest of that "greatest generation." He served his country with honor and distinction and was admired and respected by all who knew him. "The Colonel" will always be remembered with love.

Services are to be held on Saturday, June 4th at Florida Memorial Funeral Home, 5950 S. U.S. Highway 1, Rockledge, FL. Visitation will be held at 2:00 p.m. followed by funeral services at 3:00 p.m.