WILLIAM "BILL" RHODES JOHNSON
Aug. 10, 1937-Dec. 28, 2017
William "Bill" Rhodes Johnson, 80, Orlando, Fla., died at home Thursday, Dec. 28, 2017, after a long illness.
Born Aug. 10, 1937, in Burlington, N.C., to David Rhodes Johnson and Leone Virginia Rudd, Bill earned bachelor's and master's degrees in education (University of North Carolina) and pursued doctoral studies (New York University).
Bill married his sweetheart, Martha Ann Cheek, Dec. 21, 1960, in Carrboro, N.C.
Johnson influenced countless youths as a history teacher, school administrator and superintendent (Goldsboro city and Lee and Robeson counties).
In retirement, he taught at-risk students (Alamance County).
Mr. Johnson volunteered (Optimist, Kiwanis and Rotary clubs; Special Olympics), served on boards and committees (Goldsboro Arts Council, Lee County Hospice, chambers of commerce in Lumberton, Lee County and Sanford areas) and received recognitions for his work in professional associations.
Johnson served in leadership of local and regional congregations of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He taught doctrinal courses, conducted funerals, officiated at weddings and fulfilled many other roles.
A sought-after speaker, Johnson delivered hundreds of talks at church and civic functions.
An avid Tar Heel fan, Bill rarely missed the University of North Carolina basketball or football games.
A prolific amateur photographer, Bill documented natural and historical destinations and family events -- especially milestones of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Bill Johnson is survived by his wife of 57 years, Martha; his children, William (Dianne) Johnson Jr. and Kelly (David) Neuenswander; his grandchildren, Courtney (Cameron) Howard, David (Leda) Johnson and Ava, Luke and Logan Neuenswander; and his great-grandchildren, Jackson, Caroline, Bracey and Whitt Howard and Savannah and William Johnson.
He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Elizabeth "Betsy" (Gene) Ash.
The funeral service will be Friday, Jan. 12, 2018, 11 a.m. in LDS Stake Center at 3719 Pinetop Road, Greensboro, N.C., 27410. Burial will follow at Guilford Memorial Park, 6000 W. Gate City Blvd., Greensboro, N.C., 27407.
Online condolences can be made at www.haneslineberryfuneralhomes.com.
(Pd)
Published in Obituaries on January 10, 2018 8:05 AM