Stephen Arthur Johnson

August 9, 1952 – August 9, 2025

On the day he was born, and on the same date seventy-three years later, Stephen A. Johnson’s journey came full circle. He left this world on his birthday, August 9, 2025, surrounded by the love he gave so freely throughout his life.

Born in Chicopee, Massachusetts, Stephen grew up in Virginia Beach, but his early years were filled with travel and new horizons. Before college, he lived in many places—including Bermuda, Kansas, North Dakota, Texas, and others—experiences that shaped his curiosity, adaptability, and adventurous spirit.

Stephen attended Virginia Tech, where he studied forestry and engineering and was a proud member of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity, forming lifelong friendships that remained dear to him.

After college, his life’s path took him across the map—to Venezuela, Connecticut, New Jersey, California, Colombia, and finally, Florida. In Florida, Stephen founded SJTurbine, building a business that reflected his expertise, dedication, and passion for his craft. Together with his wife, Celeste (“Omy”), and their children, Laura Lee and Raymond, he created a warm and welcoming home filled with love and laughter.

His life was a tapestry of family, friendship, and passion—a web of connections woven across states, countries, and oceans. He had an enormous extended family and countless friends from all over the world who cherished him deeply.

As a turbine engineer, Stephen poured his heart into his work, building not just engines, but a career defined by excellence and respect. He treasured the colleagues and friends he met along the way, seeing each encounter as a chance to learn and connect.

Stephen’s heart beat for adventure. He soared above the clouds as a pilot, explored the silent depths as a scuba diver, wandered the world with curiosity, and poured patience and precision into building intricate models. His love for animals and his willingness to help anyone in need were matched only by his boundless generosity and kindness, which touched lives everywhere he went.

On Saturday, August 16, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Fred Hunter Funeral Home in Hollywood, Florida, family and friends will gather to honor him. For those far away, a live stream will bring us together as we say goodbye.

Stephen’s legacy is not just in what he built, but in how he lived—with generosity, wonder, and an unshakable love for the people and world around him.