Lt Col USAF Joe R Johnson

Lieutenant Colonel Joe Rogers Johnson, aged 90, a truly remarkable and humble man, passed away on January 17, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and selflessness. Born on March 7, 1933, in Birmingham, Alabama, he dedicated his life to the well-being of others, making an enduring impact on the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him. Joe lived a life marked by courage, dedication, selflessness, and love for his family and country.

A decorated veteran, Joe served his nation with honor in the Vietnam War, completing more than 200 air combat missions between 1964 and 1973 first as a forward air controller and then as an F-4 pilot. His bravery in the line of duty earned him numerous commendations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, and the Air Medal with 7 Oak Leaf Clusters. His service was a testament to his unwavering patriotism and commitment to his fellow soldiers.

Beyond his military achievements, Joe was a master woodworker, an avid outdoorsman, and a member of several veterans' organizations, including Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Sons of the American Revolution, and the Sons of Confederate Veterans. His woodworking skills were a source of joy and pride, creating beautiful pieces that reflected his precision and care.

Family was the cornerstone of Joe's existence, and his love for them knew no bounds. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones creating memories filled with warmth and unconditional love and laughter. He found joy in little things like eating lunch with his son, creating beautiful pieces of wood furniture, and the company of good friends swapping fascinating stories of lives well lived.

Joe's love for life's simple pleasures - a good fishing trip, a well-crafted coffee with two creams and two sugars, and his favorite, a chocolate milkshake, - was well-known among his family and friends. These moments of joy were as much a part of his legacy as his more visible achievements. His ability to appreciate life’s simple pleasures served as a reminder to those around him to savor the beauty that exists in every moment.

Known for his humility, Joe was a beacon of kindness in his community. He possessed a rare ability to put others first, always extending a helping hand or offering a comforting word. His generosity knew no limits and he touched countless lives through his selfless acts of kindness. Joe was a living example of the power of compassion and the impact that a humble heart can have on the world.

He leaves behind a loving family: his son Gary Johnson, daughter-in-law Carol, grandson Sean, and granddaughter Jordan, as well as his wife of later years, Diana, and her children (Kim Gauss, Stephen Morros (Lee Morrison) and Greg Morros). Joe is preceded in death by his mother Jackie Johnson, father Joe Frank Johnson, daughter Jennifer Johnson, and first wife, Carolyn Johnson.

Joe's departure leaves a void in the lives of those who were fortunate to know him, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of family and friends. As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary soul, let us also celebrate the legacy of love, kindness, and humility that Joe leaves behind. May his example inspire us all to lead lives of purpose, compassion, and devotion to those we hold dear.

A memorial service will be held to honor Joe's life on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at Kilgroe Funeral Home in Pell City, Alabama. Visitation will be from 9 am to 10 am. The memorial service will begin at 10am. Burial will follow at 1:15 pm at the Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo, Alabama. Friends and family are invited to join in remembrance and support. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Disabled American Veterans, an organization close to Joe's heart.

Lieutenant Colonel Joe Rogers Johnson's story is one of selflessness, courage, love, and dedication. May his soul rest in eternal peace and may his memory continue to inspire and shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew and loved him and in those whose lives he touched through his gentle spirit and countless selfless acts.