Larry Dean Johnson Sr.

Born on June 27, 1946, in French Camp, California, Larry Dean Johnson Sr. was a beacon of resilience, ingenuity, and community empowerment. As the eldest son of Odessa Goodnight and Charlie Edward Johnson, Larry was raised with a deep sense of responsibility—caring for his siblings at a young age and learning the value of hard work. His early education at Martin Van Buren Elementary School, Stockton Junior High School, and Edison High School laid the foundation for a life marked by excellence.

Larry accepted Christ at an early age. He was a devoted member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Stockton, California, where he served on the Deacon Board, under the leadership of Pastor Henry F. Dean and Pastor Samuel Smith Jr. In his later years, Larry united with Boggs Tract Community Church in Stockton, California, under the leadership of Pastor Stephen Cooley.

On an Easter Sunday in the early 1960's, Larry was introduced to Judith Ann Villadores. They began dating and were married on December 28, 1964. Larry and Judy remained loving companions and friends for over 60 years.

Larry began his professional aspirations at Pacific Gas & Electric before embracing his innate entrepreneurial spirit. He went on to launch several successful business ventures, including MC Liquors I and II, SIC Bail Bonds, and MC Chicken Hut. Notably, as a co-founder of S.T.A.N.D. (Stocktonians Taking Action to Neutralize Drugs), he played a transformative role in placing hundreds of first-time home buyers into homes throughout the greater Stockton area, embodying his unwavering commitment to uplifting his community.

Beyond business, Larry served as City Planning Commissioner for Stockton, shaping the city’s development with visionary leadership. He co-founded Project Identity—the first Black Outreach Organization dedicated to community enhancement, youth career development, and health and wellness. He helped launch Stockton-LA Day, a celebrated three-day event that united communities through sports, food, and entertainment. His leadership in these initiatives not only advanced civil rights but also fostered unity and pride across diverse communities.

Larry's passions extended into martial arts, earning him a 1st degree brown belt in Tae Kwon Do and victories in numerous tournaments. He was a proud member of the Golden Eagles Motorcycle Club of Stockton. He also embraced life's thrills with a keen interest in gambling, enjoying everything from lotto and scratchers to sports betting and craps—a reflection of his drive to always WIN.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents and his son-in-law, Duan Washington.

Larry is survived by his longtime companion Judy Johnson of Stockton, California; children, Lynette Johnson-Washington of Oakland, California, Tonya Johnson of Sacramento, California, and Larry Johnson Jr. (Elizabeth) of Stockton, California; sisters, Barbara Conley (Anthony), Brenda Newton-Fox, Linda Mundey (Al) all of Stockton, California; brother, Rev. Wallace Stevenson of Madera, California; grandchildren, Branden Nelson (Kendra) of Corona, California, Jonathan Johnson of Stockton, California, Tayllor Washington of Oakland, California, Darius Clifton of Sacramento, California, Alanah Johnson of Rancho Cordova, California, Dillon Washington of Oakland, California, and Larry Dean Johnson III of Bakersfield, California; and his two great-grandsons, Kenden and Bryson Nelson of Corona, California; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

Larry's life exemplified visionary leadership, steadfast devotion, and the resilient power of community. As we honor his enduring legacy, let us always hold close his favorite words: "May you live as long as you want, and never want as long as you live!”

A visitation for Larry will be held Thursday, March 6, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Frisbie-Warren & Carroll Mortuary, 809 N California St, Stockton, California 95202. A funeral service will occur Friday, March 7, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Victory In Praise, 2029 E Harding Way, Stockton, CA 95205. A graveside service will occur Friday, March 7, 2025 from 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Stockton Rural Cemetery, 2350 Cemetery Ln, Stockton, CA 95204.