Calvin Leo Johnson, also affectionately known as John, CJ and JJ, age 65, of Piedmont SC, passed from this life on January 29, 2019. John was born on March 24, 1953, in Hammond, IN, to the late Marvin and Frieda Johnson. He enlisted in the Navy in 1975 as a Machinist Mate Chief and served honorably for 20 years on a number of ships to include the USS San Diego, USS Enterprise, and the USS King. John was a generous man who would help anyone at the drop of a hat. A devoted father, he loved bragging about his children and grandchildren; Eric and Sarah miss their dad so much! He was a talented musician, playing the blues and rock his whole life. He loved to talk and tell stories and often ended with an apology for “gabber-jawing.” Being a good ol’ country boy, John enjoyed being in nature, hiking trails, fishing, and seeking out peaceful waterfalls. He loved kitschy sci-fi/horror movies and always referred to them as “Johnson Specials.” John is preceded in death by his father, Marvin, his mother, Frieda, and his brother, Gary. He is survived by his loving children and daughter-in-law; grandchildren Aven, Kaitlyn, Dayce, and Kailee; and his sisters Pat and Donna.
The family invites friends and loved ones to gather and celebrate John’s life and love on Friday, February 22, 2019, from 4:00pm – 5:00 pm, at Open Arms Hospice/McCall Hospice House, 1836 West Georgia Rd. Simpsonville SC 29680.