"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will reward to me on that day, and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."     Timothy 4:6-8

On Saturday, May 17, 2025, Deacon Leon R. Johnson, Sr., Age 83, transitioned from his earthly home at 1137 West Main Street, Waverly, Virginia to be with the Lord. He was born on August 18, 1941, the fourth child of the late Edmond and Geraldine Gilliam Johnson. He was preceded in death by one sister, Deaconess Clarice P. Harris, one brother, Willie Johnson and one beloved grandson, TyQuan L. Johnson.

Deacon Johnson received his education from the Sussex County Training School.  He was employed by Gray Lumber Company in Waverly, Virginia for 41 years until he retired. In 1975, he became part of local history when he was elected as President of Local Union No. 14401 of The United Steelworkers of America, the first organized union in Waverly. Deacon Johnson was a dedicated, life-long member of First Baptist Church in Waverly, Virginia where he served faithfully in many capacities, including the Trustee Board. He was a phenomenally gifted vocalist, and he loved singing for the Lord. In 2023, he was honored for 66 years of service and for being the oldest living member of First Baptist Church's Sanctuary Choir.  Deacon Johnson was a member of The New Community Mass Male Chorus, where he shared his powerful voice to bless many with his personal rendition of the song "Wave My Hand."

He was married to the late Deaconess Mary E. Burgess Johnson for 58 years. From that union came four children: Deborah Johnson Ellis (Calvin), Calvin "Bo" Saunders (Lena), both of Waverly, VA; Anthony "Smokey" Johnson (Mary) of Chesterfield, VA and Leon "Tripp" Johnson, Jr. of Surry, VA. He also leaves to cherish his memory 13 grandchildren, Demetrice Felts Mansell, Briana Ellis, Jabarae Manson, Tevin Johnson, Darius Taylor, Tykia Turner (Cornell, Jr.), KeRon Johnson, Leon "Trey" Johnson III, Duray Johnson, LeBron Johnson, Ryan Thomas, Jordan Thomas, and Kamilla Crockett; 14 great-grandchildren; one sister, Essie Mae Taylor of Petersburg VA; eight sisters in-law: Gloria Spencer, Barbara Jackson, Gladys Graves, Helen Shaw, and Patricia Burgess, all of Waverly VA, Sheron Burgess of Petersburg VA, Bettie Turner (John) of Prince George VA, and Sandra Wooden (William) of Hopewell VA; three brothers-in-law, Kenneth Burgess of Waverly VA, William Burgess of Chesterfield VA, and Curtis Burgess (Azieb) of Stuttgart Germany; protective and supportive neighbors, Deacon Carlton Perry Sr and Deaconess Arlene Perry; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, including his long-time pal, Herbert Taylor of Waverly, VA.  Deacon Leon Johnson was well known not only in the Waverly Community but also in most surrounding areas as well. He will be remembered as a die-hard Washington Commanders (Redskins) fan and was rarely seen without sporting his favorite Washington attire. His presence will surely be missed.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff, especially Nurse Mindy, of Bon Secour's Southside Cancer Center for the kindness and support shown to our loved one during his care.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Please keep the family uplifted in prayer.