Allen L Johnson

Allen Johnson, known to generations of radio listeners as the unforgettable Dr. Al Adams, leaves behind a remarkable legacy in broadcasting, education, and ministry. A gifted on-air radio personality, respected program director, dedicated educator, and devoted man of God, Allen devoted nearly five decades of his life to entertaining audiences, inspiring young broadcasters, teaching others, and shaping the future of radio in Tennessee and beyond.

Allen’s broadcasting career began in 1959 and spanned nearly two decades on the air, through 1976. During those years, his distinctive personality and talent brought him to radio audiences in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Cincinnati and St. Louis; and Syracuse and Buffalo, New York. As “Dr. Al Adams,” he became a memorable presence to generations of listeners and earned the respect of colleagues throughout the broadcasting industry.

In 1976, Allen made a career change that would become one of the defining chapters of his life. He joined Fulton High School as a radio broadcasting instructor, beginning what would become a 28-year career dedicated to teaching and mentoring young people in the art and craft of radio broadcasting. He also managed WKCS-FM, the student-operated radio station at Fulton High School.

Through his work at Fulton, Allen touched the lives of countless students. He taught them the technical and creative skills of broadcasting while also encouraging them to believe in their own abilities and pursue their dreams. Many of the young people he mentored went on to build successful and storied careers in broadcasting and other fields. His influence extended far beyond the classroom and radio station, leaving a lasting mark on the lives of those fortunate enough to call him teacher, mentor, and friend.

Alongside his distinguished careers in broadcasting and education, Allen was also called into the ministry. He served as a Pastor, Associate Pastor, and in countless other capacities within the church throughout the years. He attended Valley View Baptist Church. His faith was central to his life and his sense of purpose. Allen believed deeply that he was called to share the Word of God with everyone he knew and everyone he encountered. He served that calling tirelessly, offering his time, his voice, his encouragement, and his faith to others.

Allen was preceded in death by his father, Fon Johnson, and mother, Kate Johnson.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Carolyn (Bowers) Johnson; his children, Fon Johnson (Pamela) and Kevin Johnson (Terri); his grandchildren, Christian Johnson (Kayleigh) and Brandon Johnson (Tommie); and his brothers, Bill Johnson (Revandene) and Johnny Johnson (Georgia), along with other family members, friends, former students, colleagues, church family, and loved ones.

Allen Johnson’s life was one of service—to his listeners, his students, his colleagues, his church, and his community. Whether speaking into a microphone, teaching a young broadcaster, guiding students at WKCS-FM, or sharing the Word of God, he used his gifts to make a difference in the lives of others.

He will be remembered as a broadcasting pioneer, gifted entertainer, dedicated educator, inspiring mentor, and devout man of God. His voice may be silent, but the lessons he taught, the lives he influenced, and the legacy he built will continue to be heard for generations to come.

Allen Johnson, Dr. Al Adams, will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered.

A visitation will be held at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home, 2300 West Adair Drive, Knoxville, on October 1, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, followed by the Funeral Service at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home, 2300 West Adair Drive, Knoxville, on October 1, 2026, at 7:00 pm.

The family will meet at Greenwood Cemetery, 3500 Tazewell Pike, Knoxville, TN 37918, on October 2, 2026, at 1:00 pm for a Graveside Service.