William Eugene "Bill" Johnson 1938-2011

William Eugene “Bill” Johnson, was born January 17, 1938 to Reba and Ewell Johnson. Our mother always called him “Special.” She used that word to explain he was learning impaired. However, to all who had the pleasure of meeting Bill, “special” clearly spoke to the loving, kind and caring person that he was.

Bill worked on the farm taking care of the livestock, feeding chickens, milking the cow, driving the tractor, etc until he had heart surgery in 1982. After that time, he happily told everyone he was “retired.”

He is survived by three siblings: David (Pam) Johnson, John (Carol) Johnson and Suzie (Charlie) Everingham; three nephews: Matt, Ian and Travis (Sarah) Johnson; four nieces: Laura (Ed) Hurley, Tara, Kasey and Julie Schneider; two great nephews: Walter and Carl Hurley; one aunt: Juanita (Jack) Alden; cousins: Mary Etta (Joe) Heggie and Robert (Barbara) Johnson; a host of second cousins, other relatives and friends.

Bill and our mother’s heart beats together – we never knew which would go first, but expected the other to go quickly after. Our mother died February 19, 2008 – Bill joined our mother on June 26, 2011.

We, as a family, greatly grieve the loss of such a kind soul whose child-like mannerisms brought great joy to all of us. We are all better people because of the influence of Bill.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 29, 2011 in the Waynesville Memorial Park Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville/St. Robert.

Our family was blessed by Richland Care Center where both Bill and mom lived together for a while. We request donations to go to Richland Care Center in lieu of flowers.