DEACON:

                                                                EDDIE W. JOHNSON, SR.

                                                                         AUGUST 4, 1940 - JULY 12, 2026

  Eddie W. Johnson, Sr. was born August 4, 1940 to E Freeman John Johnson and Jewel ( Adaway) Johnson in Old London, Texas. Eddie was raised in Old London and Henderson, Texas from birth to age 23 then he moved to Longview, Texas in 1963. To this union  four boys were  born: Ray, J.C., Freeman, and Eddie Sr. 

Mr. Johnson worked for R.G. LeTourneau, Inc. for approximately 6 years; Joseph Schlitz Container company; Stroh Container Company; American National Can Company; Rexam Beverage Can Americas-Longview Plant. He was gainfully employed for over 33 years, a union organizer and business entrepreneur.

Mr. Johnson, is survived by his  three children:  Amanda E. Jackson, Susan R. Johnson, Eddie W. Johnson Jr (Dr.), and Daughter-in-law, Mrs. Willie Mae Johnson  and two grandchildren: DeKalon Xavier Taylor, Brianna Danyell Scott, and one special bonus granddaughter: ShaBrittnei Jana' and two great grandchildren: McKenzie Cook and Ryliee Scott. 

Mr. Johnson was a Molder Union Member, Steelworkers Union Local #166 member and he was elected Vice-President. He was also elected Teamster's Local #745 Chief Steward in 1992 at the Longview Plant-American National Can Company. He has been involved in Union activities for over 46 years trying to keep the middle class of America alive and well. Also, he is retired member of the Teamster Local #745 of Dallas, Texas for over 33 years, which is one of the largest local Union's in the South.                  

 Mr. Johnson was an active member and deacon of Red Oak Baptist Church in Longview, Texas, where he faithfully served and supported his church and community for many years.

 Before dedicating decades of his life to organized labor and serving his community, Eddie proudly answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army. 

Enlisting in the late 1950's, he served honorably at Fort Carson, Colorado. He volunteered for Airborne Training in 1959 and served as a Light Vehicle Driver with Company B, 1st Battalion, 47th Infantry. He was honorably discharged on May 12, 1961.

 The discipline, courage, and commitment he developed during his military service became the foundation of the leadership he demonstrated throughout his life as a devoted father, loving grandfather, union leader, businessman, mentor, man of faith, and faithful servant of God.

 Eddie W. Johnson, Sr. leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, leadership, hard work and love. He will be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, great- grandfather, brother, uncle, union leader, deacon, businessman, and a proud veteran.

                                                            Well done, good and faithful servant....enter into the joy of your Lord.

                                                                                                                Matthew 25:21