Obituary of Richard L. Johnson

Richard L Johnson went home to be with our Lord Jesus

Christ, and his beloved wife Jean Johnson, on November 18, 2020. Richard was born on April 15, 1935, the middle of three sons of Howard and Dorothy Tennant Johnson of Hoodsville, WV. His devotion to his family, and his firm belief in God, supported him during his separation from his wife, and during times of poor health. 

 

Richard attended Rivesville High School, class of 1953. Following his graduation, he proudly served his country with the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, and was also stationed on the Staff of the Commander in Chief of the Atlantic Fleet. He served four years active duty, and four years inactive. He achieved the rank of Petty Officer. He then attended both Fairmont State University and West Virginia Northern Community College.

 

Upon leaving the Navy, he joined the West Virginia State Police, becoming Detachment Commander. He proudly served as a police officer from 1958-1973. He married Iretta Jean Lester in 1959. After leaving the WV State Police, he worked for Consol Energy in Moundsville, WV, for several years in their Safety Department before retiring and moving to Florida.

 

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Ronald and Roland Johnson, and his wife, Iretta Jean. He is survived by his son, Michael Howard and his wife, Cheryl; his daughter, Melody Sue; a grandchild Amanda Beck and her husband, Darren; and two great grandchildren, Kaylee and Ethan Beck. 

 

Richard was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Ocala, and held an unwavering faith in God, which he shared with those who surrounded him. He loved Western novels/movies, Snickerdoodle cookies, and talking about his days as a police officer.

 

He is greatly missed by family and friends, who all know there was much rejoicing in Heaven upon his arrival, and that he is very happy to be reunited with his wife, whom he missed greatly for the five years after her passing.

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