Johnny Herschel Johnson

John Herschel (Johnny) Johnson, age 81, passed away peacefully at his home in Bolivar on Sunday morning February 26, 2012. Mr. Johnson was born and raised in Itta Bena, Mississippi. Mr. Johnson graduated from Itta Bena High School and attended the University of Mississippi. Mr. Johnson served in Korea as a member of the United States Army’s 31st Division for 2 years before being honorably discharged.



He was one of three children born to the late Elizabeth Borden Johnson Butera and John Rufus Johnson. Herschel was the beloved husband of Bonnie Bissell Johnson for over 57 years. He is survived by one sister, Dorothy Jean Wahl of Lutcher, LA and had one brother, the late Cecil “Bud” Johnson of Michigan.



Mr. Johnson will forever be remembered by his many nephews and nieces, along with countless other friends whom were blessed to know him. Johnny loved his family, was dedicated to his church, was proud of his military service, and was a life-long supporter of Ole Miss athletics. Prior to his retirement in 1999, Mr. Johnson was the owner of the local Chrysler Plymouth Dodge Dealership for over 30 years. He was a member of the VFW, BUMC Lynn Warner Sunday School Class and the Bolivar Masonic Lodge. Mr. Johnson was a member of the Al Chymia Temple of the Shriners and had been very active in civic affairs in the Bolivar community.



Mr. Johnson touched the lives of many people with his open friendliness and his generosity. He maintained his trademark sense of humor and his zest for living his entire life. The family requests donations be sent in his memory to the First United Methodist Church, Bolivar, Tennessee.