John Edward Johnson Sr. 79, of Hueytown, Alabama passed away peacefully at home on December 13, 2021. He was born September 28, 1942, in Bessemer, Alabama. He was comforted in his passing by his devoted wife of 59 years, Betty.

On September 29, 1962, he married Betty Irene Gill of Hueytown, Alabama and immediately swept her away on a lifelong adventure that spanned the world.

He served honorably in the United States Navy on the USS Bennington and was a proud Vietnam Veteran. He never stopped serving his beloved country by encouraging the defense of the freedoms he fought for through the teaching of the United States Constitution.

Leaving Hercules after nine years, his Naval training embarked him on a career as a Master Electrician and Gas Fitter in the Heating, Air and Refrigeration business. He served as a President of the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society, teaching trade school classes to pass on a legacy to future generations.

He was an exemplary patriot, businessman, father, and husband. His life was dedicated to the service of others. He served his family no less valiantly than he served his country, always willing to take a stand to defend of what he knew to be right.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Betty Gill Johnson, sister, Betty Johnson Walker, brother, Ronald Joseph Johnson (Sue), daughter, Jonna Johnson Franklin (Ricky), sons, John Edward Johnson Jr. (Alicia) and Donald Joseph Johnson (Bonnie).

He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jeffrey Logan Franklin (Rachel), Joshua Adam Franklin (Erica), Jonica Paige Franklin, Jake Dylan Franklin, Dr. Laura Elizabeth Johnson, Rebecca Johnson Caltabiano (Nicholas), Daniel Walter Johnson, Allison Christine Johnson, and great-grandchildren Gage, Piper, Granger, Parker, Jax and Judah, who all adored him as "Papaw."

He was preceded in death by his grandson Jacob Travis Franklin, unknown on earth, but forever loved.

Please honor his life by taking a few moments to read, understand and defend the Constitution of the United States.