William was born July 16, 1926, to Henry and Willie Mae Smyth Johnson. He was a member of the Louisville Church of Christ where he served as treasurer. Later, he became a member of the Ackerman Church of Christ. William was strongly involved in any church activities regardless of what needed to be done. He answered the call of his country by serving in the United States Army during World War II. Following the war, he worked in logging in Honduras and in automotive plants in Detroit, Michigan. Later after returning to Louisville, he worked for more than 40 years at Taylor Machine Works retiring as a supervisor. William enjoyed hunting, was a certified mechanic, and general handyman around the house but his first love was gardening.
William is survived by his daughter Glenda Johnson of Louisville. He is also survived by his sister Margaret Terry; and two brothers Walter “Dub” Johnson and wife Lou; and Elbert Johnson all of Louisville. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife Sarah Ila Johnson; his parents; and three siblings Helen Clytee Rush, Christine “Bitsy” Cannizaro, and Hubert Johnson.
Serving as pallbearers will be Gary Cannizaro, Pete Johnson, Stan Johnson, Pat Rush, Clark Sullivan, and Jeff Terry. Honorary pallbearers are Paul Miller and Johnny Woodward. Memorials in honor of William may be given to Ackerman Church of Christ.
Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.
