Thomas Johnson Jr.

Thomas Johnson, Jr. of Trenton, NJ transitioned on August 7, 2020 at the age of 85. In hospice care for three weeks prior to his death, Thomas died peacefully in his sleep. Thomas was born in Morgan City, Louisiana on March 9, 1935 to Lillian Smith and Thomas Johnson, Sr. In 1954, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1960. He immediately enlisted in the Air Force Reserve. His unit was activated in 1960 during the Berlin crisis and he was sent to France. After completion of a tour of duty in 1962 he was honorably discharged. Thomas took advantage of the G.I. Bill and used it for home purchase and to further his education. He received a certificate in General Education Development and then earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Trenton State College. He next attained a Master of Social Work degree from Rutgers University in New Brunswick and received licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Thomas retired in 1997 as the Director of Social Services after 27 years of service at the New Jersey Department of Corrections. Religion had always played an important role in Thomas’s life and he had always desired to be an adequate witness to God. In 1943, at the age of 8, he was baptized by the Reverend Thomas Phillips at the Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church in Morgan City. In 1959, he was ordained as a Deacon by the Reverend Daniel Palmer at Beauty Grove Primitive Baptist Church. After being born again, he became a member of several churches including Wayne Avenue Baptist Church and Union Baptist Church. In September 2014, he found his final church home when he joined Grace Cathedral Fellowship Ministries. Thomas served as an active member of the Deacon Board. Thomas is survived by seven of his eight beloved children: Thomas Johnson, Grendolyn (Wendell) Reid, Gregory Johnson, Barry Johnson, Yvette (Kent) Wiggins, Myron Johnson, and Vonda Johnson. He also leaves behind 17 treasured grandchildren and many precious great-grandchildren as well as a special nephew, Robert (Aelita) Johnson. He is preceded in death by his devoted wife of 45 years, Willie Lee Johnson (nee Bradford); his cherished son, Orlando Johnson; and his loving sister, Bessie Mae Smith Clark. Thomas espoused the following words of wisdom: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your path” Proverbs 3:5-6. A private viewing will be held on August 13, 2020 followed by interment at Franklin Memorial Park in North Brunswick, New Jersey. Services and Viewing are PRIVATE!

Thomas Johnson Jr.

March 9, 1935 - August 7, 2020