John Sanford Johnson Jr. peacefully went to be with the Lord on September 5, 2021 at the age of 68. John was born in Brownsville, TN to John Sanford Johnson Sr. and Josephine "Currie" Johnson. He is survived by his loving wife, Janet. He is also remembered by his children, Robert (Sabrina) Gerdes, Suzy (Ray) Chambers, John Carlos Johnson, Jeremy (Shannon) Gerdes, Jonathan (Christie) Gerdes, Brandon (Chantell) Johnson, Joshua Johnson, Jalen (Hailey) Johnson. His grandchildren included, Jessica, Hannah, Jake, Christian, Elisabeth, Jonathan, Brianna, Jurnei, Decklan, Charlii, Peyton, Emma, Lakiya, Joshua Jr., Jaxon, Cameron, Julian, plus 1 miracle great grand baby John.

He is also survived by his brothers, Donald, Damien, Tyrone, and his sisters, Margie, and Barb, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Jodie, and sisters Johnetta and Adalesa.

John worked many years as a coach, educator, father figure and mentor to all kids who grew up in the Boys and Girls Club in Decatur, IL. He considered each and every one of them as his own. Our door was always open.

While living in Decatur, John was a member and Deacon at Maranatha Church under Pastors Doug and Rosemary Lowery. We have many fond memories of our church family from Decatur.

In 2015, John and family moved to Richmond Hill Georgia and found a home at New Life Church, under the direction of Pastor Ryan and Rana Ogden. Our New Life Family has been extremely supportive in our time of need and John loved them all very much.

John attended both Stephen Decatur and MacAurthur High Schools where he played football and wrestled. He went on to wrestle at Parkland College.

Special thanks to all the nurses and doctors at Memorial Hospital, who cared for and prayed for John. And a special thanks to everyone in Decatur and Richmond Hill, as well as all of his family for all the prayers.

Services for John will be Friday, September 10 ^th with visitation from 9:15 to 10:15 at Richmond Hill Funeral Home. Graveside service begins at 10:30 at Oak Hill Cemetery in Richmond Hill, followed by lunch at New Life Church.