Howard Johnson, Sr.

Howard Johnson, Sr, age 82, of Toledo, took his place with his Lord on May 6, 2024. Howard was born October 1, 1941 in Lawton, Oklahoma to LeRoy and Luedella (Covington) Johnson. He was a 1961 graduate of Libbey High School, where he wrestled as a heavyweight. After graduating he entered the United States Air Force, proudly serving his country as a Master Sergeant during Vietnam, the Gulf War, and Peacetime. After which he joined the Air Force Reserves, where he wrested in many USAFE Wrestling Tournaments in Germany and France. Howard retired from the Air Force in 1991 after serving for 33 years. Howard also attended Highland Park Community College graduating with an Associates Degree with Honors in Liberal Arts in 1989. He was employed with the U.S. Postal Service as a mail clerk, a supervisor, and in human resources for more than 20 years before retiring.

Howard faithfully attended The Indiana Avenue Missionary Baptist Church. He served as an Assistant Director of Recreation for the Ohio Youth Commission from 1967-1968. He enjoyed antiques, cars and trains, writing poetry, and photography, he even owned his own photography and record shop at one point. He loved traveling, he had been all over the world. Howard cherished the time he spent with his family, his loving and giving qualities will be greatly missed.

In addition to his parents, Howard was also preceded in death by his infant brother, Elbert; brothers, LeRoy Johnson, Jr and Lindsay Johnson; and his sister, Ruby Lee Murria. He is survived by his children, Howard Johnson, Jr, Lisa Johnson, and Nicole Carson; sister, Mary Helen (Gene) Kelley; grandchildren, Ryan Lee Johnson, Chloe Truitt, Matthew Carson, and Rachel Carson; great-grandson, Giovanni "Gio" Castoreno; as well as a host of nieces, nephews and great-great nieces & nephews.

The family will receive guests on Friday, May 10, 2024 from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm at The Indiana Avenue Baptist Church, 640 Indiana Ave, Toledo, Ohio 43604, where a Funeral Service will immediately follow. Burial will take place Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at 1:30 pm at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.

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