Lawrence Otis Johnson

Lawrence Otis Johnson, born in Asheville, NC on July 9, 1923, died after a long illness on Sunday, April 27, 2014. Lawrence and wife Dorothy lived for many years in Columbus, Ohio, but moved to Surprise, AZ after Lawrence (Larry) became ill with Parkinson's and dementia. Larry served in the Army Air Corps in World War II and was awarded three bronze stars. After the war ended he returned to Columbus and returned to school. He graduated from The Ohio State University. For many years Larry held the position of Director of The Activities Therapy Department at the Columbus State Institute for the mentally challenged. He retired and later returned to work as Youth Director at the Elden Ward Branch of The YMCA. He also helped to establish community service groups to aid the mentally challenged, who were now living in group homes. For his dedication, Larry was awarded The Jefferson Award for community service. Larry was the first commissioner of senior softball in the Columbus area. Larry was a member of the St. Phillip Lutheran Church in Columbus and served as president of the Men In Mission for 18 years. His work was not limited to St. Phillip but extended to various committees and boards on the Southern Ohio Synod.

In addition to his parents, Larry preceded in death by his brothers, William, Alfred, Louis: and sisters, Annie Ruth and Nancy. Larry is survived by his wife, Dorothy and two sons, Charles and Marc (Jennifer). He has three grandchildren, Marcus, Donovan and Olivia. He was also an uncle and cousin to a very large family. Friends may call from 2 pm - 5 pm on Sunday, May 4, 2014 at the SCHOEDINGER NORTHEAST CHAPEL1051 E. Johnstown RD. (at Beecher RD) Gahanna. Funeral Service will begin at 11 am on Monday, May 5, 2014 at St. Philip Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1506 E. Long St., Columbus, OH 43203. Pastor Anthony J. Chatman, Sr. officiating. Interment at Glen Rest Memorial Estate. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Special Olympics Ohio, 3303 Winchester Pike

Columbus, OH 43232, to the National Parkinson Foundation, 2800 Corporate Exchange Dr. Suite 265, Columbus, OH 43231 or to Alzheimer's Association, 1379 Dublin Rd., Columbus, OH 43215. Please visit www.schoedinger.com to share a favorite memory or send a condolence.