Elder Dr. William James Johnson, Sr., 93, of North Little Rock, Ark., departed this life on November 14, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elder William Johnson, Florence Johnson, and loving step-mother, Mother Laura Johnson; sisters: Brenda Johnson, Edna Johnson Clayborn, and Queen Esther Johnson Ganaway; and brothers: Elder Freddie (Johnnie) Johnson, DeArthur Johnson, Theopolis Johnson, Samuel (Nell) Johnson, and Elder Preston Johnson. Pastor Johnson served the Lord as a pastor for over 73 years, shepherding many congregations including his first post, Wrightville COGIC, Searcy COGIC, Biscoe COGIC, and East End COGIC where he served until his death. Dr. Johnson also served as an instructor at Charles Harrison Mason Bible College. Elder Johnson served civically as Justice of the Peace for the city of Little Rock. Professionally, he worked at Bruce Flooring Plant (20 years) and as a supervisor for Old Dominion Box Company, Inc. until he retired after 37 years of service. Pastor Johnson was also a dedicated member of Tops and Kops for 47 years and served as Worship Master of the Masonic Lodge.
He leaves to cherish his memory: his children, Diane (Earl) Jordan, William (Brenda) Johnson, Brenda (Theopherlus) McIntyre, Alvin (Ramona) Johnson, Calvin (Debra) Johnson; sisters: Mary Johnson, Laverne (Oliver) Haney, James (Ozetta) Johnson, Charles (Diane) Johnson, Roy (Marie) Johnson, Clint (Sharon) Johnson; 11 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and a host of other family and friends.
Walk-through Visitation: Thursday, November 19, 2020, 4-6 p.m., East End COGIC, 709 Virginia Street, Pine Bluff, Ark., 71601.
Walk-through Visitation: Friday, November 20, 2020, 9-10:30 a.m., Holy Temple Cathedral COGIC,1322 S. Pulaski, Little Rock, Ark., 72202. Funeral service following at 11 a.m. Funeral service will be LiveStreamed on Ruffin & Jarrett’s Facebook page. Interment: Rest in Peace Memorial Gardens, Hensley, Ark. Services entrusted to Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 Chester Street, Little Rock, Ark., (501) 372-1305.
My sincere and heartfelt condolences to the Johnson family for your loss.
I have known Elder Johnson for literally all of my life. The impression that he made on my life is immeasurable. He is the reason I am ordained today as he served as the Dean of Ordination when I was ordained as an Elder in the Church of God in Christ. As a very young person, he encouraged me numerous times to keep the faith, which up until now, I have and this faith that he encouraged me in has blessed and kept my children as well. There are many laughs that I will remember as he was tough at times, but extremely humorous. I have blessed by his family as well because of he and his late wife, Mother Johnson’s powerful impact. You know a person has an imprint on your life when you can still hear their voice when their is no audio or video playing. I haven’t heard them in years, but the melody and the ministry will forever live on. My wife and family are praying for all of The Johnson children and their families. God can and He will keep you…if you keep the faith!
“Death, where is thy sting and grave where is thy victory”. Victory is in Jesus! If ever there was a deserving “WELL DONE, my good and faithful servant,” it would attributed here and now to a spiritual father to countless, a natural father, brother, grandfather, great grand to many as far as the bloodline goes, it is the man, Elder W.J. Johnson.; a Shepard of many flock, a sower of righteous Seed producing a bountiful harvest in the Kingdom of God. How awesome was the call of God on his life for over 70+ years and counting. I remember Elder Johson so very well from his ministry in Biscoe COGIC. I was a child growing up with a strong faith in God that still holds today, because of him and my Mother Jessie Sanders. Peace now belongs to him as he rests forever in the Heavenlies.
Condolences to the family at this time of loss. Celebrate life! All is well in Jesus Name.
I am praying for the family of my Pastor. Dr. Johnson had been my pastor for 66 years! I have always held him in high esteem as a father and teacher, an example of holiness and the greatest gospel preacher in christiandom! Ninety-three years is a long life and he lived and loved life. I am rejoicing because I know that My Pastor is with Jesus and his joy is complete! Rest In Glory! You made it Home!???
Diane (and Earl), we are saddened to hear of the loss of your father. Our heart goes out to you and the family. We’ll be praying strength for you for the days ahead.
A Legend has entered God’s Holy Realm
Dr. Johnson Preached my wedding 35years ago
The title of his message was “Here Comes The Bride”
We are still going strong.
We pray for the family & know we will miss one of my dad’s closest friends. Love & Respect for the Johnson Family.
My prayers are with you may the Lord be with you all
He will see you through.
We express our condolences of Elder Dr. William James Johnson Sr. Home Going to be with our Father forever. Our Brother and Friend has found Eternal Rest in the present of our Savior. Dr. Johnson was an inspiration to all he met. May his memories bring you comfort for years to come. Our Hearts and Prayers go out to You and Your Family.
I will truly miss my Pastor,mentor,father and friend he was an inspiration and joy to me. I will always remember him and I will keep a lot of things he told me to my heart and put them in action.. I love you Pastor William J. Johnson Sr. I’ll see you on the other side.
I will miss seeing Elder Johnson at the Hays Center in North Little Rock, AR. He oftentimes played the piano in the hallway. I will miss sharing a hymm with him before going into the aerobic pool.
my prayer are with family he will b miss