Joseph "Joe" Raymond Johnson

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph “Joe” Raymond Johnson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Joe was born to Doug and Billie Johnson on September 18, 1957, in Fort Worth, Texas, and his life was a testament to dedication, love, and adventure. Joe passed peacefully surrounded by his loving family on March 22, 2025, due to a stroke. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, cherished brother, Daniel Johnson, grandparents, aunt and uncles.

Joe is survived by a loving family who will miss his quick wit and warm laugh deeply. His devoted wife, Cheryl Joyce Johnson, was his partner in crime and the love of his life. They met when Joe was 33 years old and were together for 30 years, until his last moments. Their bond was strong and they enjoyed many years filled with family, laughter, and travel.

Joe was the proud father of three children: Michael Johnson and wife Lisa, Elizabeth Norman and husband Josh, and Sean Johnson and wife Chelsea. Joe had eight adoring grandchildren: Kevin Johnson and wife Amanda, Nathan Johnson, Emily Johnson, Katelyn Johnson, Hayden Coughenour, Andrew Norman, Alexandra Norman and Emma Johnson. Each of them held a special place in his heart, and he relished every moment spent with them. One Grandpa name wasn’t enough for a legend like Joe, so he was called Grandpa, Papa, PawPaw and Grumpy, which we all know he was. Joe actively participated in teaching his oldest 3 grandchildren to drive with dry witted comments like “you might want to stop at that stop sign next time” or, “you might want to speed up just a little before that 18 wheeler runs us over.” He also leaves behind his brother Don Johnson and wife Lee, cherished niece, Danielle Trussell and husband Tim, aunts Sharon Day and Wanda Hankins. In addition to family, he is survived by lifelong friend, Ken Robertson, and Michael and Elizabeth’s mother, Rebecca Johnson.

Joe's professional journey was equally remarkable. In 1980, he fulfilled his lifelong dream of joining the Fort Worth Police Department, where he served honorably until his retirement in December 2013. For 28 years, Joe was a dedicated member of the K9 Unit, where he shared his extensive knowledge as an instructor trainer. Members of the K9 Unit often quipped that Joe had forgotten more about dog training than most would learn in a lifetime. To his family and friends, he will always be K972, a title he wore with pride. Joe’s legendary police escapades became the stuff of legend, often embellished with each retelling, bringing laughter and joy to those around him.

Joe was a man of integrity, humor, and love. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. As we celebrate his life, let us remember the laughter, the love, and the moments that made Joe the incredible person he was.

A celebration of life will take place at Alvord Baptist Church, located at 205 E. Boling St, Alvord, TX, on Saturday, April 12th at 11am. Visitation will be at 10am, before the celebration.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Joe’s memory to Fort Worth Patrol K9 Support, American Heart Association, or Saddle Creek Cowboy Church Forestburg, Texas.