Walter Fred Johnson

Walter Fred Johnson (79), of Trotwood, Ohio, was born on February 5, 1944, to the union of James and Martha Louise Johnson in Stanton, Tennessee. Raised as the youngest son of seven children, it was said he was full of mischief and curiosity.

After years of working the family farm and graduating from Gailor High School, Fred (as he was more commonly called) moved to Chicago in pursuit of entering into the music industry. After living in Chicago for some time, he moved to Dayton, Ohio, where he continued his musical pursuits as a manager of a teen singing group. Once his musical pursuits began to wane, Fred took a job with General Motors. After working for the company for more than 25 years, Fred decided to retire.

Upon his departure from the workforce, Fred would spend his time resting on his favorite hammock in the backyard, being an active member of Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, visiting with friends and family, watching basketball, and enjoying a nice day in his rocking chairs on his front porch discussing what person in the world had the most money.

He would always share anecdotes about his childhood on the farm and the lessons he learned from his father with anyone willing to listen. His ability to strike up a conversation with anyone from a McDonald's employee to a CEO made it easy for him to share all the life lessons he garnered over the years. No matter the individual's status in life, Fred always managed to leave a lasting impression.

Fred went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. His infectious laugh, zest for life and sharing spirit will live on through those left behind.

Fred was preceded in death by his beloved mother and father, James Johnson and Martha Louise Blackwell-Johnson; son, Ryan K. White; and brothers, Emerson Crenshaw and Warren G. Johnson

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving and devoted life partner of 52 years, Carolyn Borders; children: Roderick Flint I (Rian), Kimberly Jarrett, Sidney Malone (Renee), DeeDee Dorsey (Lamar), Yolanda Johnson, and stepson Darryl Lemon (Sharon); grandchildren: Angelique, D'Shara, Sidney Jr., Robert, Shanti, Lamar Jr., Marcus, Tomara, Brandon, Roderick II, Arielle, Mycah, Mykel, and Maiya, and five great-grandchildren; brothers: Curtis Johnson (Celestine), James Johnson (Peggy); sisters: Dorothy Claybon (Swazoo), and Lee Thelma Jones; sister-in-law Clara Johnson and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

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