Today we celebrate the life of one of God’s most precious and unique creations. Pastor Billy R. Johnson was born December 5th, 1950. He was the seventh of thirteen children to Reverend Joe Lee Johnson and Mrs. Louella Johnson. He was a 1969 graduate of Central High School and is remembered fondly for his singing by his classmates. Never a stranger to hard work he grew up on a farm, and always loved the earth and working outdoors. He worked several jobs over the years: retiring from Jones Companies.
Proverbs 18:22 – Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing and obtaineth favor from the Lord. Pastor Johnson married the love of his life Rose Champion and transitioned one month short of fifty-four years of marriage.
Being brought up in a Christian home, and making Jesus his choice, he served at Antioch M.B. Church. He was a choir member, musician, deacon, and treasurer, until answering his call to preach the Gospel June 25th, 1989. On July 10th, 1989, he preached his first sermon “Making Full Preparation to Meet the Bridegroom”. Ordained October 8th, 1989, he did the work of an evangelist until accepting the call to lead St. Paul M.B. Church in Brownsville, TN. He faithfully served as Pastor of St. Paul from April 5th,1992 until he transitioned to be with the God he served.
He departs, leaving behind a legacy of cherished memories; his wife Rose along with his five children Melissa Seabrook (Keynin); Teaneka Wardlow; Laquissa Smith (Sidney); Carlos Wardlow (Brittanie) and Shannon Johnson (Devin). He also leaves eleven grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
He leaves eleven siblings. One preceded him in death (Joyce Woods). Pastor William Johnson (Rosie): Johnnie Johnson (Christine); Pastor Joe N. Johnson, Sr (Betty); Minister Larry Johnson (Pat); Rouden Johnson (Esther); Minister Eugene Johnson (Janice); Mattie Montgomery; Mary Bufford, Doris Bufford; Clementine Perry (Tyrus); Priscilla Farmer (Michael) and a host of nieces and nephews.
He also leaves to cherish his memories his loving church family, St. Paul Baptist Church.
As we bid farewell to our beloved Pastor Billy R Johnson, we find solace in the words he lived by, as expressed in 2 Timothy 4:7-8: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” Pastor Johnson’s journey, marked by unwavering devotion to his family, faith, and community, echoes the profound impact he leaves behind. Today, we celebrate not only a life well-lived but a legacy of love, service, and faith that will endure in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we navigate the void left by his departure, let us find comfort in the assurance that, like a crown of righteousness, Pastor Johnson’s enduring spirit will shine bright in the presence of the Lord.
