Celebrating the life of
William "Johnny" Odell Johnson Jr.
December 04, 1944 - May 27, 2026
William “Johnny” O. Johnson, Jr. passed away at home after a long illness, surrounded by the love of his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, William O. Johnson, Sr. and Mavis Oglesby Johnson.
Johnny was born in Savannah in 1944 while his family was based in Rincon, Georgia. During his childhood, his father’s service in the United States Army gave the family the opportunity to live in several places, including Alaska, where Johnny developed a love for skiing as a teenager. Family stories were often told of his mother sending him off to the mountains for the day with nothing more than a loaf of bread for sustenance. The family also spent time living in Virginia during another military assignment before eventually returning to Effingham County. There, Johnny graduated from high school and began dating the woman who would become his beloved wife of 57 years, Joyce.
Johnny proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard, and was assigned to Tybee Island, where he would later make their home. He graduated from Armstrong State College in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and went on to build a successful career with Deemer, Dana, and Froehle, where he retired as a partner.
Johnny was also an active member of the Islands Exchange Club, where he faithfully served as both treasurer and president. He valued community service and the friendships he built through his involvement with the organization.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Joyce Rahn Johnson; his children, Joanna Rodenberg (Erich), William O. Johnson, III (Bonnie), and Jennifer Johnson. Johnny was a beloved Papa to Turner, Charlie, Clara, Annemarie, and Charlotte, who brought him tremendous joy and pride. He is also survived by his sisters, Linda Coley; Joan Lee (Frank); and Gerrianne Wolcott (Richard).
Johnny loved being outdoors, life on the water, and boating. He enjoyed hosting friends and family for Lowcountry boils and making his famous chargrilled oysters. Nothing made him happier than teaching his grandchildren how to run the boat and catch fish. He was also a talented craftsman who used his skills to restore boats and build treehouses that will remain treasured memories for his family.
Johnny will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his Spanish Hammock neighbors, and the many friendships he built throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion that will continue through the family he cherished so deeply.
The family will receive friends on Monday, June 1, 2026 at Fox & Weeks, Hodgson Chapel beginning at 11:00 a.m. until just prior to the service. The memorial service will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Charles Fiveash officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hospice Savannah Foundation or Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) in Johnny’s memory.
What a privilege it was to have known Johnny both as a neighbor and friend. Always had a kind word to share and a smile on his face. Johnny and Joyce were the perfect team. Our deepest sympathy to his family. Heaven has gained another angel!
- Steve and Kathy Salter, Tybee Island, GA
I am so very sorry for your family's loss! Sending you my thoughts!
- Benjamin Barbour, Savannah, Georgia
May prayers and comfort surround and help you through your sadness.
- Mary L Brooks, Atlanta, GA
Joyce, I'm so sorry for your loss. My heartfelt condolences to your family.
- Kathy D Miller, Madison, AL
Our thoughts and prayers are with yall, Mr Johnny was special to our family .
- Connie holloway , Rincon, Ga
Our thoughts and prayers are with yall, Mr Johnny was special to our family .
- Connie holloway , Rincon, Ga
Joyce, so sorry to hear of the passing of my friend and former partner Johnny. Though I was only privileged to know him for a few years since he retired shortly after I joined the Firm, I thought a lot of him and enjoyed our time together. Prayers go up daily for you at this time. Rick Deemer
- Richard Deemer, Centerville, GA
Johnny will be greatly missed. He was a great neighbor and friend. Prayers to Joyce, children and grandchildren. Heaven has gained a wonderful angel.
- Douglas and Mary Hall, Tybee Island, Georgia
My condolences to Johnny's family.
- Scott. T Sherman, Harrison, Arkansas 72601
Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May the memories you shared bring you comfort and strength in the days ahead.
- Angelia Newell, Atlanta, GA
I'm so sorry to hear about Johnny. Johnny was a wonderful friend and neighbor, he will be truly missed. Prayers for Joyce and the family.
- Marie Lee, Tybee Island, Ga
A candle has been lit!
Our thoughts and prayers to you Joyce and your family. May the love of family and friends and all the wonderful memories you shared with Johnny sustain and comfort you.
- Bobby and Judy Shearouse, Palm Coast, FL
Joyce, I'm so sorry to hear of your husband's passing. May God's peace sustain you through this difficult time.
- Carol Ray, SAVANNAH, GA
The Hammock has lost a kind and generous man. It was always a bright spot in the day to see him riding up on his bike with a smile on his face and teasing about who had collected the most litter along Catalina that day. All who knew him mourn his loss. Our deepest sympathies to his family.
- Linda and Jeff Koenings, Tybee Island, GA
So sorry for the loss of this good man. I feel sure he has been rewarded for his life on earth in a beautiful place, free from pain and suffering. My prayers go out to Joyce and his family during this sad time.
- Nancy Bain, Augusta, GA
I am so sorry to hear that Johnny has passed away. Our group enjoyed getting to know him and we were so grateful that he shared his lived experience, which so many people found helpful and inspiring. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
- Katy Harne, Savannah, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Visitation
- 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Mon, June 01, 2026
- Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
-
7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive (map)
Savannah GA 31406 - 912-352-7200
- Memorial Service
- 1:00 p.m. on Mon, June 01, 2026
- Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
-
7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive (map)
Savannah GA 31406 - 912-352-7200