Warren spent his early years in Iowa. He often spoke fondly of times spent with his beloved grandparents, his Mother Maizie, Uncle Everett, and Cousin Ruby. In 1940 Warren graduated from McKinley High School where he was an exceptional runner, winning several tournaments. He was a member of a singing quartet, singing at parties and over the local radio. He spent some time studying at a university before joining the Armed Forces.
Warren was an avid storyteller and loved sharing his life experiences with others. He had much to relate regarding his travels to Japan, the Philippines, and New Zealand. Papa loved all types of music from folk to classical; however, Jazz was his favorite. He found great pleasure working in his garden and was known for the hot peppers he grew. He loved to cook and his speciality was homemade chilli. Even at his advancing age, Papa enjoyed dancing, attending symphony performances, and going to the park to listen to live music . He was a very meticulous man and was never caught without one of his favorite hats. Warren was a hard worker and had various jobs throughout his life. Before retiring as a Construction Worker in Chicago, he assisted in constructing some of Chicago’s landmark buildings such as the Sears Tower.
While living in Chicago, Warren met and married the love of his life, Barbara. Together they raised five children. For over 60 years they enjoyed dancing, fishing, travelling, and extending hospitality to others. Warren was a devoted and self-sacrificing husband and father who always put his family first. In 1962, Warren was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. For decades, he served as a Congregation Elder while living in Chicago, IL, Memphis, TN, and Jackson, TN. He also enjoyed the privilege of serving as a full time minister and attended Pioneer Service School four times. Warren, affectionately known as Papa, will be dearly missed. His hope of living forever on a paradise earth in perfect health will soon be realized. (Isaiah 35:6)
Warren leaves to cherish his memory his beloved daughters, Audrey (Vern) and Renicia (Michael). He is survived by his sons, Vincient, Eric, Alan, Carl; his daughter, Lynn; his grandchildren, Darnell (Melissa), Shayla, Vincient Jr (Lisa), Erica, Jasmine, Alan Jr, Morgan, Aubrey, Billie (Odale); his great-grandchildren, Amaya, Christopher, Shawn, Iyana; best friends, Gerald and Sherry.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.FamilyFuneralMemphis.com for the Johnson family.
