Wayne William Johnson II

He was born December 10, 1989, in Los Angeles, CA to Wayne William Johnson and Karen

Preyer and grew up in Peoria, IL. He married Amanda (Milliman) on March 14, 2015 in Peoria,

IL, but fell in love during his deployment in 2014. She survives.

Also surviving are Wayne’s father, Wayne William Johnson (Dyveke “Dove” Pratt); mother,

Karen Preyer (Dom Phouma); two amazing and beautiful children, Makenzie Johnson and

De’Quan Booker; brother, Bryson Taylor; grandmother, Elease Preyer; and many beloved family

members.

He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Melvin Johnson and Marilyn Smith,

maternal grandfather, Jeff Preyer, cousin, Sean Long, and father-in-law, Gary Milliman.

Wayne proudly joined the United States Marine Corps in 2009 and was honorably discharged

in 2017. He completed three tours to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Spain. He was an aviation

electrician and range coach during his time that he served. After serving Wayne was devoted to

being a mentor and friend to other veterans and an active member of the Legion Rider’s.

Wayne was a dedicated husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He loved fishing, camping, riding his

Harley, singing karaoke, playing guitar, reading, and making people laugh. His laugh was

infectious. He left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His gift for making friends and

welcoming anyone into his life was unmatched. Wayne will live on forever in all of the memories

he created with people that he loved and that loved him. Wayne will forever have his wife’s

heart, their love was a once in a life time love.

There will be several opportunities to pay respects and offer condolences to the family.

The first visitation will be at Kilgroe Funeral Home in Leeds, AL on Sunday, October 3rd from

1-2 pm with a service to follow. A celebration of life will be on Monday, October 4th, at the

American Legion Post 107 in Leeds, AL at 7 pm. The final service will be in Springfield, Illinois

at Camp Butler National Cemetery, date to be determined.

Memorial rides are being organized. Contact the American Legion Post 107 for details.

Donations can be made to “Fund for Wayne’s family home and Harley costs” and “Fund for

Wayne Johnson’s Kids” through gofundme.com.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kilgroefuneralhome.com for the Johnson family.