John W. "Johnny" Johnson

John W. “Johnny” Johnson 1941 - 2025

On December 6, 2025, the world lost a true original. John W. Johnson lived life to the absolute fullest, always finding a reason to share a story and a laugh. His legacy is one of survival, fierce independence, and an unshakeable yet quiet belief in the power of our Sovereign Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Johnny Johnson, 84, of McComb, entered his heavenly rest suddenly at home on the evening of December 6. Visitation was held December 10, from 5PM until 8PM at Hartman-Jones Funeral Home of McComb with visitation again on Thursday from 9AM until services at 11AM at the funeral Home. Dr. David Millican did officiate and burial was in Whittington cemetery.

Born in McComb on May 26, 1941, to John Robert “JR” and Katherine “Bill” Johnson, Johnny was raised in a home rooted in hard work, loyalty, and faith. His parents owned and operated a small country store—an anchor of the community and a place where neighbors became family. Years later, that same cherished location would come to life again when his son, Ric, opened SunnyHill BBQ, allowing the Johnson family to continue serving the people of McComb for more than a decade. This same location would be his home address for his whole life.

Johnny attended McComb High School, where he met the love of his life and future bride of 60 years, Lawanna McIntosh Johnson. Their partnership was one built on devotion, teamwork, and a shared commitment to their family and faith. JJ was a devoted member to South McComb Baptist Church for more than five decades. Together, they created a home filled with love, resilience, and fortitude. Johnny owned and operated Johnson and Son Construction Company with his son for more than 40 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Robert “JR” and Katherine “Bill” Johnson; sister Virginia Lee (Pete); older brother Robert H. Johnson.

He is survived by his wife, Lawanna Johnson; his younger brother, Daniel A. Johnson (Linda); his children, Ric Johnson (Bente), and Renee Gentry (Joel); his grandchildren, Anna Claire Smith (Cody), Jordan Hess (Channing), Sarah Reid (Sawyer); his great grandchildren, Maverick Reid, Amelia Reid, Hutton Hess, and Maddi Claire Smith; and many nieces and nephews and other family members and friends whom brought him immeasurable joy. To his grandchildren, he was not just “Pop”. He was a storyteller, a mentor, and often the source of the most unexpected wisdom.

Johnny was a man of many passions. He loved catching catfish on the Mississippi River, hunting white-tail deer, attending family cookouts, and was an avid sports enthusiast. He never missed an opportunity to share these joys with the people he loved. He carried a deep appreciation for simple pleasures: a good conversation and time with his family and friends, a well-seasoned meal, a familiar hymn, or a quiet moment on a Mississippi backroad.

Above all, he lived with gratitude for his faith, his family, his friendships, and the gift of everyday life. His presence was steady, his humor unmatched, and his love unmistakable. Johnny’s memory will continue to live on in the traditions he built, the stories he told, and the generations he raised with love, grit, and faith.

Pallbearers were Jordan Hess, Cody Smith, Sawyer Reid, Lee Gill, Stevie Moore and Jamie Wallace. Honorary

Pallbearers were Bill Baggett and Benny May.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be given to South McComb Baptist Church in memory of Johnny Johnson.