Charles Johnson Obituary

Johnson, Charles

Charles E. Johnson, Jr. passed away on April 5, 2022, three days shy of his 91st birthday. He was preceded in death by Yvonne, his wife of 56 years, and son, Charles III and is survived by his son, Craig and daughter, Tracey. He also leaves brother David, many nieces and nephews, neighbors and friends. The oldest of eight, "Sonny" began a lifetime of helping others as a toddler. Family, friend, colleague or neighbor, he was always there to lend a hand or support. Weeks after his 17th birthday, he joined the Navy, sending his GI pay home to the family. He served in Japan for two years during the Korean War as one of the Lamp Lighters, flying supplies to the troops. Upon return, he attended Chicago Teacher's College, where he met his future wife, Yvonne. Charles taught at Shakespeare High School for 10 years before joining Upward Bound and the Mayor's Office of Manpower. He earned his master's degree from Northeastern University in 1974 and went on to serve as Area Director of the Department of Children and Family Services, making a difference in the lives of many at risk children, and retired after 17 years. In his spare time, Charles loved tending his vegetables and flowers and working year round to have the best lawn on the block. His smile, laugh, and open arms will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

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