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William Joseph "Big Bill" Johnson

William Johnson Obituary

JOHNSON, WILLIAM JOSEPH "BIG BILL," 79, died Saturday, December 2, 2006 in Greenville, TX. He was a local entertainer known as "Big Bill Johnson, the Tall Kentuckian," and later as the "Singing Drywall Man." He was a multi-talented performer. His proudest achievement was playing onstage with Hank Williams Sr. at the Grand Ole Opry. He was preceded in death by his mother, Emily Johnson; dad, Emil Johnson; brother, Robert Johnson; daughter, Laura Johnson Newton; grandson, Christopher Johnson; and his first wife of 21 years and mother of his children, Mary Dean. He is survived by daughters, Emily (Johnson) Johnson, Mary Elaine Avery (Joe) and Vivian "Vicky" Johnson; son, Billy Johnson; eight grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; one great-greatgrandchild; brother, Emil Jr.; and sisters, Evelyn Elzey and Martha Downs, all of Louisville. Memorial Mass, followed by a luncheon, is 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 6105 S. Third St.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Dec. 6, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
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6 Entries

Bettie Lamb

November 30, 2024

We always knew you as "Big Bill Johnson". We loved your visits, music, & songs. You are missed by everyone that knew you.

Bettie Lamb

November 30, 2021

Big Bill Johnson was an important part of our family. My kids always loved to hear him sing to them.

Vivian Johnson

December 14, 2006

I am going to miss my dad. He could tell the corniest jokes I ever heard. His love was unconditional, and I knew he would support any endeavor I attempted. I learned about life by watching him live day to day. His words of wisdom will live forever in my heart. Vickie

Bettie Lamb

December 8, 2006

My heart goes out to the family of "Big" Bill Johnson. He used to come over to my house and play his guitar and sing to my children back in the 70's before he moved to Texas. I am also a cousin. Mary Roller was my mother. Bettie Lamb
Deputy, Indiana

December 7, 2006

My heart goes out to family and friends of Big Bill. My dad used to play Bill's records for me as a little girl. Deepest sympothy. Cyndi Theiler - Cousin of Big Bill

Robert Burkett

December 6, 2006

My regards to "Big Bill's" family. I worked at Fultz recording Studio in Fairdale in the 70's, and Bill was always a favorite. I have one of his records, "Don't Close Durrett Down". He will be missed.

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