JOHN “JOHNNY” JOHNSON

John was born on November 15, 1965, to the late Sandra Lee (Conn) and Raymond Johnson. The youngest of five children, Johnny always knew how to stand out–doing things his own way and on his own time. Growing up, there was never a dull moment. He spent much of his life playing the sport he loved most: basketball. Rarely was he seen without a basketball in his hand.

Johnny loved going against the grain. He was a proud Dallas Cowboys fan and a diehard North Carolina Tar Heels fan, with Carolina blue being his signature color. He was employed by the City of Steubenville for nearly 30 years.

After his playing days ended, Johnny continued his passion for basketball by coaching. Many of the teams he coached included his own children and stepchildren. He was deeply dedicated not only to the sport, but to the kids he coached. Later in life, he found great joy in watching his grandchildren participate in sports and other activities they loved.

In his 20s, Johnny met the love of his life, Susie–whom he affectionately called “Suz.” After years apart, they reunited and were married on June 5, 2016. It was as if they had never been apart. The love they shared was undeniable. Their favorite thing to do was simply being together–taking walks in their neighborhood, relaxing by the pool, watching sports, or enjoying movies at home. They truly cherished one another’s presence.

Johnny will forever be remembered for his amazing smile and infectious laugh. He was a devoted husband, a wonderful father, granddad, brother and a loyal friend.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his loving wife, Susie Reed Johnson; his children MaeLynn (John) Lester of Steubenville, Laci (Andrew) Volcheck of Green, Ohio, Amber Smith of Steubenville, Chad Johnson of Vandalia, Ohio, Michael (Narine) Mavormatis of Las Vegas, Nevada, and LeeAnn (Mike) Lechnir of Tipp City, Ohio; and his 11 cherished grandchildren: Kellen, Phoenix, Johnnie Ray, Abraham, Amaris, Olivia, Alexia, Jace, Kayla, Michael, and Maya. Several beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Johnny is also survived by his siblings Keith (Sherry) Johnson, Michael (Marsha) Johnson, Scott Johnson, and Beth Ann (Keith) Williams; his best friends Michael (Paula) Riley, James “Jimmy Mack” (Lisa) Wilson, Paul “Mookie” Williams, and Michael Mayo; and a special cousin he loved like a brother, Chris (Connie) Blackburn.

Calling hours will be held Monday, February 2, from 4-8 pm at the Mosti Funeral Home, Sunset Chapel, 4435 Sunset Blvd., Steubenville. A funeral service will be held Tuesday at 10 am at the funeral home, Pastor Jason Elliott will officiate. Burial will follow in Union Cemetery.

Offer condolences, www.mostifuneral home.com