Leonard Joseph Johnson

Leonard Joseph Johnson, age 87, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, brother-in-law and friend peacefully passed away into the loving arms of our Lord on January 11, 2024. Born on November 14, 1936 and raised in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, he carried the spirit and warmth of his hometown with him throughout his life. He embraced the rich culture, music, and cuisine that New Orleans is known for.

He is preceded in death by his parents Ethel Johnson and Felton Johnson as well as his brothers, Rodney Johnson, Arthur Johnson and sister Diane Johnson. He leaves behind to mourn his passing his loving and dedicated wife of 67 years, Mary Lee Johnson, his brother Victor Johnson of Inglewood, CA and three devoted daughters, Debra Pickney of Richmond, Texas, Stephanie Paul (Richard) of Richmond, TX and Melissa Johnson of Houston, TX. He was doubly blessed to have a host of grandchildren, Jon Michael Short, Christopher Short, Faith Pickney, Jade Myers and Joshua Paul and those who had a special place in his heart. His family was his pride and joy, and he always made time to create lasting memories with them.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, loving and devoted sisters-in-law, Ann Johnson of Los Angeles, CA, Loretta Hobbs and Madeline Curtis of New Orleans, LA and Genevieve Taylor, Anna Lou Hobbs, Lucille Oliver (Alfred, Sr.) all of Houston, TX. He is also preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Louisiana Narcisse and father-in-law, Albert Narcisse, Sr. of St. Martinville, LA, sisters-in-law, Muriel Ann Johnson of New Orleans, LA, Marie Burke of Houston, TX and Hazel Narcisse of Port Arthur, TX and brothers-in-law, Dale Taylor of Houston, TX, George Burke of Houston, TX, Albert Narcisse, Jr. of Houston, TX and Edward Curtis of New Orleans, LA. He is also survived by brothers-in-law, Horace Narcisse and John Narcisse (Elvira) of Port Arthur, Texas and Murphy Narcisse, Sr. (Ethel) of Parks, LA, and a large host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

He dedicated 21 years of his life to Sabine Towing and Transportation Company. He joined the company as a Chef Steward in October of 1973 and served with utmost dedication until his retirement in January of 1996. During his tenure at Sabine, his job took him on numerous journeys across the globe, allowing him to explore diverse cultures and make lasting connections. From the beautiful shores of Puerto Rico to the vast landscapes of Sudan, Africa. His hard work, dedication, and culinary skills made him an invaluable member of the team. He took great pride in his work and formed lasting friendships with his colleagues.

Outside of work, Leonard had a passion for music, cooking, entertaining, gardening, carpentry, upholstery, and interior design. He found joy in creating delicious meals for his loved ones, tending to his garden, and using his carpentry skills to bring his creative ideas to life. His talent for upholstery and interior design allowed him to transform spaces into beautiful and inviting environments.

One of the most significant moments in Leonard’s life is when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior on December 13, 2008. This profound experience transformed his life and became the foundation of his faith. His presence will be greatly missed, but his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

A funeral service to celebrate his life will be held on Friday, January 26, 2024 at Katy Funeral Home, 23350 Kingsland Blvd., Katy, TX 77494 with visitation from 9:00 am – 11:00 am and services immediately following. Interment, Forest Park Southwest Cemetery, 9040 FM 359, Richmond, TX 77406. Family and friends are invited to join in honoring his memory and sharing stories of his remarkable life.