Ellis Ray Johnson, 93 of the Grassy Community, passed away Friday, November 3, 2023, at his residence. Ray was born April 8, 1930 in Grassy, the son of James Ellis Johnson and Victoria Berry Johnson. He was a graduate of Arab High School Class of 1948. He married the love of his life, Betty Jean Copeland on April 8, 1951. He attended Snead State Community College and while attending college he was drafted into the United States Army, serving in Korea and Japan during the Korean War. When he was honorably discharged in 1953, he continued his schooling at Jacksonville State Teacher’s College receiving his bachelor’s degree in education. Later, he received his master’s degree from Alabama A & M University. He was an educator for over 37 years for the Marshall County School System, spending most of those years at Grassy Junior High School. He served many roles while working at Grassy…from principal, teacher, coach, bus driver and janitor. He was a member of the Alabama Education Association and the American Legion Post in Decatur.
He is survived by his wife of 72 years: Betty Johnson; a daughter: Vicky L. Johnson; sisters: Nell Davis (Monty) and Carolyn Ellinger (Bill); brother-in-law: Verlon Copeland; special friend: DeWitt Miller; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. He was preceded by his parents: James Ellis and Victoria Johnson; brothers: James B. “Buddy” Johnson and Joe H. Johnson.
Funeral Service will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at Gober Funeral Chapel with Brother Brandon Berry officiating and eulogy by Mickey Hunt. The burial will be in Rocky Mount Cemetery, Gober Funeral Chapel directing. Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Tuesday at Gober Funeral Chapel.
