Henry "JJ" Johnson

OBITUARY

Henry James Johnson Sr. was born on August 27, 1944, in Luling, Texas, to Earnest Johnson and Agnes Shirlet Nelson. He lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service. Henry welcomed people into his world with an open heart and accepted others without judgment. His compassion, gentle spirit, and willingness to embrace people as they were serves as a true reflection of the faith he carried throughout his life.

EARLY LIFE / EDUCATION

Henry James Johnson Sr. spent part of his early life growing up in Lockhart, Texas, before eventually moving to Austin, Texas. He attended L.C. Anderson High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1962. During his school years, Henry played football, a sport that reflected his strength, determination, and competitive spirit.

EMPLOYMENT / CAREER

Henry built a long and dedicated career with the Austin Independent School District Transportation Department. He took great pride in helping ensure that the students entrusted to his care arrived safely at school and returned home safely to their families. Through years of hard work, dedication, and commitment, Henry advanced within the department, and ultimately rose to the position of supervisor.

MUSIC, INTERESTS, AND COMMUNITY

Outside of his professional career, Henry was widely known for his love of music. A talented DJ, he became affectionately known as “The Godfather” and “J.J.” He possessed a special gift for reading a room, energizing a crowd, and bringing people together through a lively blend of blues, R&B, Zydeco, and other favorite genres. Whether behind the DJ booth, cheering for his beloved Dallas Cowboys, spending time with family and friends, or serving his community, Henry made a meaningful and lasting impact wherever he went.

SURVIVORS

His beloved wife, Becky Ann Fontenette Johnson; his children, Paula Johnson Graves (Gary), Paulette Johnson Ruff (Terry), Chaniquia Johnson, Terrance Washington, Deirae Fontenette, and Najijah Fontenette; his grandchildren, Mary A. Johnson, Ernest Johnson, Emma Williams, Larry Johnson, Linda Chapa, Awayne Johnson, Monique Johnson, and Ernesta Johnson; a host of loving grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and countless other family members.

PRECEDED IN DEATH

Henry was preceded in death by his parents, Earnest Johnson and Agnes Shirlet Nelson; his son, Henry James Johnson Jr.; and his granddaughters, Brooklyn R. Ruff.

Expressions of Gratitude

The family wishes to extend heartfelt appreciation to the members of the Elks Organization for the brotherhood, fellowship, and support they shared with our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle throughout his life and during this time of remembrance.

We also extend our sincere gratitude to the Bowser family for their extraordinary love, assistance, and continued support to our family during this difficult time. For greater than 60 years the Bowsers have demonstrated kindness, presence, and willingness to help the Johnson family in our time of need.

We also extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who prayed for our family and demonstrated acts of kindness through phone calls, text messages, flowers, food, visits, and other expressions of love and support. Your care, compassion, and presence during this difficult time have meant more to us than words can express. We are deeply grateful for each of you.

Special Thanks

The family would like to extend our sincere and heartfelt appreciation to Reverend Xavier Bowser, Mary Johnson, Victoria Mathis, Dwight Piper, Levi “Pinky” Bowser, Denise White, Christiana Odlum, and Carmelita Fowler for your tremendous support, dedication, and assistance in preparing for the funeral service and helping ensure that our beloved family member is laid to rest with the dignity, love, and honor he so richly deserves.

A special thanks to Manifest Home Health for the compassionate care.

“Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts.”