Robert Johnson

On September 23, 1924, Robert Johnson was born to the late Mr. Mrs. Isaac and Ella Johnson. To this union was born 23 children. Robert is the last of the siblings to transition. Robert was educated in Norristown Pa. school system. Robert began an interest for the Armed Forces at an early age. He also worked for the Pennsylvania railroad laying tracks for the east coast. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the United States Navy where he was assigned to the U.S.S. Mason in 1942. He was employed by the Federal Government to be the Sergeant Police of the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard where he served for 36 years.

On Friday, April 13, 1951, his life was richly blessed. He was United in Holy Matrimony to the late Carrie Mae Wall. Because of his love for her, He was curious about whether his wife was running around with another man. She was, and he found the man she was running with. In 1962 He met the Man called Jesus and he also accepted Jesus as his personal Savior at Miracle Tabernacle which later changed to Miracle Temple which was located at 43rd & Walnut Street where the pastor was Rev. R. W. Schambach. In 1975 the Lord directed him to become a faithful member of The New Life Tabernacle Church where he served faithfully for 18 years as the head deacon under the leadership of late Rev. Dr. Wiley T. Hill Sr. They were affectionately known as Dad & Mom Johnson to everyone whom they came in contact with. This union lasted for 42 years until she transitioned to Glory. Some of his favorite hobbies were whistling early in the morning while coming from work. He also loved watching westerns and movies telling you what would happen before it happens. He was a Boy Scout Master and he loved driving for everyone and most of all he loved singing. He loved the Lord with all of his heart. For many years he was a professional driver for Bernard Korman CEO of the Medic Corporation and also Dr. Rothko of the Hospital Corporation Inc.

His life made another change. He was introduced to a lady by the name Hazel M. McKenzie through her daughter Connie Purnell. The two became united in Holy Matrimony on July 2, 1994, at The St. John's United Methodist Church. They lived their life acting as teenagers with great fun and happy love. They loved to sing together at St. John United Methodist Church. The song most requested was (Give Me A Clean Heart) until her sudden and tragic accident occurred. This union lasted for 10 years until her transition to Glory. In 1993 the Lord led him to St. John United Methodist Church, where he served faithfully under the leadership of Rev. Calvin R. Woods which is now under the leadership of Rev Stafford Miller.

Robert, better known as Rev. Johnson to his church family, served as assistant to the Pastor of St. John's United Methodist Church. He also served as Chaplain for the Fishers of Men and was the Minister of Visitation. Rev. Johnson also was on the St John's Prayer Team, Praise and worship team and also a member of the Men's Choir. He also was on the nursing home team where he ministered once a month. Rev. Johnson was the retreat minister where he served for many years with the Fishers of Men. Rev. Johnson was a Communion Stewart and a faithful member. He loved St. John and the people of St. John's United Methodist Church Rev. Johnson received the kingdom builders Award from St. John's United Methodist Church.

He was preceded in death by two of his daughters: Bea Wall and Emmaline Jenkins.

He leaves to cherish his memories and celebrate his legacy:

Robert LaVel Johnson (Nina Lisa Johnson of Phila. PA), Peggy Graves (Benjamin Graves of Phila. Pa), S. Diane Durham (Clifford (Randy) Durham of Pittsburg Ca) Shelia Jackson (Charles Jackson of Atco N.J.) Constance Purnell (Robert Purnell of Camden N.J.) James Moore (Louise Moore of Willingboro N.J.) 10 Grandchildren. Chareese, Evonia, Anthony, Lamont, Nina, Tiffany, Maurice, Monique, Tierra, Travis. 12 great-grandchildren 1 great great grandchild. With a host of nieces and nephews colleagues and friends.