Rudolph J. Johnson

Rudolph James Johnson was born in Washington, DC, on June 25, 1951. “Rudy,” as he was affectionately called, was the fifth of seven children born to the late Walter Nathaniel and Genevieve Rose Johnson. Rudy was a man of God who loved the Lord and loved people. He enjoyed engaging conversation and never met a stranger, happily chatting with anyone - whether a family member, a friend, or someone he happened to meet while out. Rudy had an infectious laugh and a sense of humor that everyone enjoyed. His big and generous spirit was contagious, and he easily drew others into his space. Rudy took advantage of these opportunities to share the love of Jesus and was, in turn, loved by those whom he touched.

Rudy was educated in the public school system of Washington, DC, and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1969. Rudy had a deep passion for music and served as the lead guitarist for several bands across the DC area. One of his most memorable moments was performing with the band, the 95th Congress, alongside his late brother, Erik. Once Rudy gave his life to Christ, his passion for music turned into ministry, and that led to being an intricate part of several church music departments, including From the Heart Church (formerly Full Gospel A.M.E. Zion Church), Judah Temple A.M.E. Zion Church, and his present church home, Doers of the Word. That same passion afforded him the opportunity to be one of the original band members for William Becton’s debut project, Broken. Rudy’s experience with Broken sparked his passion for composing and producing. He wrote and produced a CD dedicated to his mother entitled A Tribute to Mom, and produced ‘Nuggets of Gold and Songz - EP’ for his niece, Nina.

Rudy believed in serving the Lord with gladness. He was a devoted member of his church, Doers of the Word, where he actively participated in ministry, always ready to give his time, talents, and treasure to support the church’s mission. In addition to offering his musical gifts, he was a teacher of the gospel and regularly donated his time to clean and maintain the church's worship structure.

Rudy had a deep devotion to his family and adored his son, Colin. He would often tell everyone how smart his son was and how proud he was to be his father. Colin attributes the man he is today to Rudy. On September 2, 1995, Rudy married the love of his life, Agnes, with whom he spent 30 years. Rudy and Agnes shared a strong bond and built a solid and impenetrable relationship rooted in their love for God. They enjoyed welcoming family and friends into their home for meals - whether it was a special holiday celebration or simply just because. Rudy and Agnes were two peas in a pod and made the most of their time together. One of their favorite traditions was taking day trips and vacations to North Beach in Southern Maryland to enjoy one-on-one time. They had even planned another visit for this August.

Through his union with Agnes, Rudy gained more family, namely his stepson Courtney, with whom he shared lively, good-natured debates, whether about sports or the latest news. His devotion to family was also exhibited in his support and care of Agnes' mother and father. In fact, he was very involved in helping Agnes care for her mother during her final years while she lived with them. This is a true testament to the compassionate and selfless person Rudy was. Rudy enjoyed spending time with his siblings, nieces, and nephews. He had a strong and enduring sense of family that was instilled in him by his parents, who taught their children to love one another and to look out for each other, and he did just that.

Rudy departed this life on Saturday, July 12, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Genevieve Johnson, siblings Jeanette, also known as “Tony”, Reginald, and Erik Johnson, parents-in-love, William and Annie Gray, and brother-in-love, William Gray, Jr.

Rudy is survived by his wife, Agnes Johnson, son, Colin Johnson (Bianca), stepson, Courtney Williams, granddaughter, Kalyse Johnson, great-granddaughter, Kamiyah King, siblings, Walter “Nat” Johnson, Warlene Smith, Tyrone Johnson (Joyce), brother-in-love, Rev. Chester Gray and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Rudy’s life touched so many and left an indelible impression on them, including his extended family: Morris and Kathy Stanley, Harold Freeman, Joyce Johnson, Joyce Williams, Beacher Wiggins, and the Wright Family (Connie, affectionately known as MaWright, Kirk, Lynda, and Pastor David).

Rudy lived a remarkable life, guided by God, and consistently encouraged those around him to live in a way that aligns with God’s good, perfect, and acceptable will. His legacy of faith, love, and service lives on, and we look forward to the day we will see him again in glory!

A chapel service for Rudolph will be held Monday, August 18, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Lakemont Memorial Gardens, 900 West Central Ave, Davidsonville, Maryland 21035.