Raymond E. Johnson
South Bend - "Live today like the person you want to be remembered as..." - Raymond E. Johnson
Raymond E. Johnson,74 years old, returned to our divine creator at his home on June 1st, 2021. Ray was born to Freeman and Emma (Borntreger) Johnson in South Bend, Indiana on April 14th, 1947. A decorated 2nd lieutenant in the United States Army, he received 2 purple hearts and 2 bronze stars with oak leaf clusters for his service in Vietnam prior to honorable discharge in 1969. Ray was married to Patricia Johnson 50 years ago on September 16th. To this union was born Danyelle (Kellen and Keyon- grandchildren) Johnson, Gabrielle (Andy) Johnson, Aaron Johnson, and Marcus Johnson. Raymond had 5 brothers and 3 sisters; survived by Freeman (Pam) Johnson, Kenneth (Jamie) Johnson, and Tina Johnson-Sheffield. He was preceded in death by his brothers Richard (Kate), David (Doris) and Melvin (Linda), and sisters Sharon (Paul) Mcleod and Catherine Rowell.
A devoted son, who often read the bible to his daddy, an awesome brother, outstanding father and scholar, Ray was remembered as being handsome, so kind, inventive, intelligent, a big nerd, optimistic, a fabulous conversationalist, great advice giver, humanitarian, artist, photographer, great dancer and music enthusiast among many other things. Ray had an extraordinary appreciation for all living beings. He loved to help his minister brother, Elder Kenny, feed the less fortunate on Saturdays and the wildlife in his backyard everyday. He found so much joy in "the small things", like listening to the chorus of the birds songs in the still morning trees, and pondering the curiosities of the universe. He strived to capture his interpretation of it all in photographs.
Raymond always answered the phone and was regarded as the person to call for peaceful words to start the day and restful words at night. He always pushed his kids to be helpful and loving to one another, to follow their dreams and focus on what's important in life. He believed that with a plan, focus and determination, anything is possible. (-Marcus)
Ray showed unconditional love and support in his kid's dreams. He was always there for them any way he could be. "He is the definition of what it means to be a giving , helping, loving father. (-Aaron)
The best thing we learned from our father is how to persevere.(-Danyelle) There's nothing he wanted more than to help guide his family to overcome similar obstacles and hardships he faced in his life. He preached the importance of following what you love and what makes you happy in life.(-Kellen)
A memorial celebration of life will be held at a later date. In line with his legacy as a scholar, he wished to donate his body to science to help medical professionals uncover and perfect new treatments for cancer patients. Details for the location, time and date will be posted in August of this year on Cobb Funeral Home's website.
Most sincere appreciation and regards to special friends, all of our family and acquaintances for your calls, expressions of sympathy and prayers during this time of sorrow. God bless.

06/14/2021 JFC