Howard Alfred Johnson Jr.

Howard A. Johnson Jr.,” Howie”, 88, originally of Fairview, NJ, who resided for many years in Stuart, FL. currently of Lynchburg, Va, died at home on Monday, November 14, 2022.

Howie was born at Holy Name Hospital in Teaneck, NJ. He was predeceased by his mother, Elizabeth F. Johnson; his father, Howard A. Johnson Sr; his wife of 39 years, Bette Lou Johnson; his sister, Marilyn Reitzel and his partner of 28 years, Patti Diegidio (married 12/1/2016).

He attended Union Hill High School in Union City, NJ and graduated in January of 1953. He attended Jersey City Technical Institute and then had an Electrician Apprenticeship at Alcoa Aluminum. He worked as an Industrial Electrician most of his life and retired from Hills Brothers Coffee after 20 years.

Howie served in the U.S. Army from 1954-1956 in the Dial Central Office Maintenance stationed in Wurzburg, Germany.

Howard is survived by his son, Ricky H. Johnson; his daughter, Lori Johnson; his daughter in law, Beth Hawley; his brother-in-law, Ron Reitzel; his nieces, Janice DeSando and Cheri Yacono (Gary).

He spent his retired years traveling, wood working, learning his computer, and most of all tinkering and fixing around the house and yard. He was the handyman for his neighborhood always, helpful during hurricanes and he just knew how everything mechanical worked. He had a lifelong fascination with cars, either fixing them, racing them or just admiring them which he passed down to his son. He was a master storyteller recounting the feats of his life, pranks, fun times with friends throughout the years, and family stories. He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

A special thank you to the dedicated and caring staff at Liberty Ridge who cared for him as if he were one of their own, especially the team on the 2nd floor. He liked things done a certain way and we know he could not be convinced at times (ever) that you did know what you were doing. We know the feeling….. . Pops says, “I have a system!”

A service or gathering will be held sometime in the spring at George Washington Memorial Cemetery in Paramus, NJ. Please contact Lori or Ricky Johnson for further details.

If you wish to make a donation in his name, consider:

Seven Hills Hospice www.sevenhillshh.com

Susan Koman Foundation https://www.komen.org/

Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.