Mr. Ronnie Eugene Johnson, age 68, departed this life unexpectedly on Monday, March 14, 2022. He was born to the union of Ray William Johnson, Sr. and Lottie Mae Johnson (Hurn) on June 22, 1953. Ronnie was the 12th child of 13, and the 8th male.
Born in Cairo, Illinois, Ronnie attended Cairo School Systems where he was a leading basketball star. His basketball skills and talents would earn him a scholarship to attend Edward Waters College in Jacksonville, FL. Ronnie would go on to pledge Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and later receive his bachelor's degree in physical education in 1977.
Ronnie began his career by working at Stateville Prison in the culinary department and then moved his family to Muskegon, Michigan, where accepted a Corrections Program Coordinator position with the Michigan Department of Corrections (Muskegon Temporary/Brooks Correctional) Facilities. He retired after 24 years of service and was well respected by employees and inmates alike; due to his quiet demeanor and positive attitude towards life.
In 2009, Ronnie felt the call to duty and became a member of the 5th Battalion Michigan Volunteer Defense Force, where he earned numerous certificates of achievement surrounding FEMA. He also worked as a substitute teacher with Muskegon Public Schools; and served as an Election Chair/Official for the City of Roosevelt Park.
He attended the West Michigan Worship Center, under the leadership of Rev. Robert Johnson; and often visited the Greater New Liberty Church of God in Christ led by Bishop Willie R. Foster.
Ronnie had a great appreciation for music and sports and his favorite team was the Chicago Bears.
Ronnie leaves to cherish his memory, wife, Karen Johnson; children, Rolanda (Aaron) Murray, Ryan Johnson, Christina Johnson; Delecia (Tyran) Copeland, Michael Johnson, Glenn Johnson, Royce Johnson, and Raphael Johnson; bonus children, Karen Cole, Adam Cole and Amy (Eugene) Smith; brothers Billy, Wayne and Lloyd; sister, Donzella (Dale) Sims; twelve grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Special childhood friend, Larry Baldwin; classmates, Thomas Wilson, Ralph Spradley, Gary Pang and college friend, Ron Summers.
Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Lottie; siblings, Ray Jr., Calvert, Jerome, Glenn, Betty, Sandra, Kay Francis, and Linda.
