Johnny was born to parents Boyd and Marie Johnson on February 20, 1943 in Artesia, CA. He grew up as the eldest of three and graduated from Plainview High School, Ardmore, OK in 1961. In the summers Johnny toured the country competing in rodeos as a bull rider. He met Judith Anwander while competing in the RHR Rodeo in Highlands New York in 1965. They were married the following year. He went on to graduate from Oklahoma State University in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Following earning his degree Johnny enlisted in the United States Navy where he served as a Medical Assistant from 1968-1971. His final assignment brought Johnny and Judith to the Naval Air Station in Atlanta, Georgia. In 1970 they welcomed their first child, Jeffery Boyd Johnson followed by Shannon Lea Johnson in 1978. Johnny was a devoted husband and father to his family. He coached both Jeff and Shannon’s athletic teams every year, took them fishing, played golf, taught them how to use a lasso and was always there to offer love and support. He loved his wife Judith with all his heart and soul. Their marriage was a perfect mix of respect, love and fun.
Johnny was a retired Certified Golf Course Superintendent, a retired member of the Golf Course Superintendent’s Association of America and the Georgia Golf Course Superintendent’s Association. During his career he served as a Board Member of GGCSA. He was a superintendent for 33 years, beginning his career at Horse Shoe Bend Country Club in Roswell, Georgia and retired in 2004 from Capital City Club of Brookhaven, Georgia. Always a kind and compassionate leader, Johnny was a beloved member in the industry and was respected by his peers.
Johnny is survived by his wife of 54 years, Judith Johnson; daughter, Shannon Ross; son Jeffery Johnson; granddaughters Caroline Johnson, Katherine and Charlotte Ross; his sisters, Patricia Williams and Deborah Walter. He is preceded in death by his father, Boyd Johnson; mother, Marie Hughes and Stepfather Luther Hughes.
A small family service will take place at The Roswell Funeral Home on February 20th. The family is grateful for the condolences, in lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or locally to The Lionheart School in Johnny’s memory.
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