Jay Edward Johnson

It is with heavy hearts that we bid a final farewell to Mr. Jay Edward Johnson, 31, of San Antonio, Texas, who departed our world far too soon on June 23, 2022. This genuine hometown hero is fondly remembered for his fierce tenacity, relentless determination, boundless compassion, unshakable optimism, remarkable character, and game-changing contributions to local and statewide affordable housing. No one will forget his passion for serving others, his bright smile, infectious laugh, and brilliant sense of humor.

Mr. Johnson was born on October 7, 1991, in Fort Worth. He was the second of two amazing children born to proud parents, Gloria D. Johnson and Ernell G. Johnson. From a young age, it was crystal clear that he was someone special who would accomplish extraordinary things in his life. After graduating from Cassata High School (where he later served as a board member), he went on to earn a degree in real estate from Tarrant County College.

Jay accomplished many historical "firsts" throughout his life. He was the youngest person to ever serve as a board member for the Tarrant County Black Historical and Genealogical Society. He was the first to adopt a park in Fort Worth, the Eugene McCray Park. He was the first African American to be inducted into The Rey Feo Consejos, a fraternal organization that raises money for education in San Antonio. In 2018, he became the first Texas Development Director for Cohen-Esrey, where he established and oversaw three major development projects that created over 1,000 new affordable housing units across Texas.

During the 81st legislative session, Mr. Johnson served as a public policy intern under Senator Wendy Davis. In this position, he was directly involved in Affordable Housing and Economic Development policy changes and development. He also interned for Fort Worth Councilwoman Kathleen Hicks.

Since 2009, Mr. Johnson has valiantly fought for the housing rights of his fellow Texans. For nine years, he served The NRP Group first as a Development Intern and quickly became an Assistant Developer. In that time, this dedicated professional led numerous affordable housing development and public and private projects that resulted in more than 2,000 affordable housing units in the Dallas and Fort Worth areas alone. Additionally, he developed various Market-Rate, Senior, Student, Mixed-Use, and Affordable communities across the state.

Jay was a loyal and longstanding member of the Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers (TAAHP). By his fifth year with the organization, he served on multiple committees, including Education, Membership, and Diversity & Inclusion. Most notably, he spearheaded efforts that resulted in the Public Finance Corporations draft legislation for the Government Affairs and Legislative Affairs committees. He also partnered with various charity groups and participated in many related community events.

This young man was deeply passionate about strengthening his community by advocating for the underrepresented. The several multi-million-dollar projects he undertook positively disrupted the industry and greatly improved the lives of countless individuals. He was devoted to empowering people to rise above poverty and live their best lives.

Those close to Mr. Johnson speak volumes about his authenticity, inspiring nature, impressive ambition, and the way he could make an entire room laugh hysterically. A crazed foodie, he loved to share brunch with the people he cared for most. His dog, Tom Bruise, was the apple of his eye, and he thoroughly enjoyed every moment he shared with his friends and family. His concern for others extended far beyond the initial moments, ensuring hed regularly check in on those he encountered, served, befriended, or loved.

Jay Johnson was sadly preceded in death by his loving parents, Gloria D. Johnson and Ernell G. Johnson. Left to cherish his memory are his adoring sister, Mauri D. Johnson, a host of close friends, and the many community members whose souls he touched along his way. His spectacular legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

The Jay Johnson Legacy Scholarship has been created by his closest friends and family, whove teamed up with the Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers (TAAHP) to honor his incredible spirit and the tireless work he did for his beloved community. This scholarship will create paid internships for low-income students dedicated to establishing a career in affordable housing.