3/12/1943 – 2/21/2025
Lawrence
Donald Johnson, 81, of Lawrence, KS, transitioned from his earthly home to his heavenly home on Friday, February 21, 2025. Born on March 12, 1943, in Kansas City, Kansas, the seventh son of George Johnson and Beatrice Rogers.
Donald graduated from Sumner High School on May 12th, 1962 and joined the US Air Force on August 17th of that same year.
In May 1969, he graduated from Kansas City Kansas Community Junior College, and then graduated Wichita State University with a BS in Electrical Engineering in 1972.
Professionally, Donald was an electrical engineer with Southwestern Bell, which later became AT&T. He dedicated many years to his work, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues.
Donald was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was also a loving husband and cherished every moment spent with his family.
Don found his church home at West Side Baptist Church, where he served for 50 years. During his time, he served as the Deacon of worship, coordinator of missions, the adult Sunday school teacher, lay preacher, cross-cultural mission leader, evangelist. He visited shut ins and homebound members. He also was a greeter and a great friend to many.
Donald was a lifelong, loyal fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, and his passion for the team was as strong as his love for his family.
Outside of his professional life, Donald was a passionate enthusiast of both Star Wars, The Twilight Zone, and Star Trek, embracing the imaginative worlds of science fiction. He was also a proud member of the Wheel of Fortune Winners Circle.
Donald leaves behind a legacy of family, friendship, and enthusiasm for the things that brought him joy. He is survived by wife Sandra Kay Barber-Johnson, daughters Nikki and KaySee Barber, granddaughters Devyn Quarterman, Clark Barber, and Zoey Barber, grandson Savonni Love, and great-grandson, Jaxson Quarterman.
He is preceded in death by his parents George and Beatrice, Willard Rogers, Louise Johnson, George Jr. Johnson, Sally Covington, and Kenneth Johnson, all of Kansas City, Kansas, and Leonard Johnson of Lenexa, Kansas; Arthur Johnson of Arizona. He is survived by Karenza Murphy, Paul (Bernice) Johnson, and Stewart (Dolly) Johnson, all of Kansas City, Kansas; Francis (Arthur Sr.) Nash of Arizona.
He will be remembered for his sharp wit, kind heart, and deep devotion to the Lord and those he loved. He will be greatly missed but forever remembered by all who knew him.
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