"This is Caralee Horstman, oh my I was so sad to hear of my dear Gary has passed ! My family and his were next door neighbors for so many years, so many wonderful memories of my great brother who was always looking out for me! We were truly blessed to have known and loved him !"
In loving memory of
Gary L. Johnson
Gary L. Johnson, 74, went to be with his Lord on Thursday, January 25, 2018 in Phoenix, Arizona. He was born January 30, 1943 to Elbert and Marie Johnson in Phoenix. On January 22, 1965, he married Shirleyan Cambron of Buckeye, Arizona. Gary enjoyed serving in his church, time with his family, helping others, and activities like hunting, fishing, and movies with his boys.
Survivors include his wife Shirleyan; his two sons Scott (Kathy) of Everett, Washington, and Eric (Brigitte) of Johnstown, Colorado; seven grandchildren Samuel, Noah, Jacob, Owen, Eric, Sophie Anne, and Gracie Mae; one sister Mrs. Gayle Wilson of Ash Fork, Arizona; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Gary attended Washington Elementary, Washington High School, and Grand Canyon College (University), all located in Phoenix. Gary was known as Mr. J. and coach to thousands of students over his teaching career of more than 43 years. This was one of his greatest joys as evidenced by his vehicle license plate of "43OPK" (43 years of other people's kids) on his big red truck.
Time of Celebration:
February 2nd at 6:00pm
Hillside Baptist Church
1344 W. Thunderbird Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85023
Flowers and Gifts:
In lieu of flowers and gifts, the family has requested donations to one of two establishments that have ministered to our family over the years.
Texas Scottish Rights Hospital
http://community.tsrhc.org
Phoenix Children's Hospital
http://www.phoenixchildrens.org/ways-to-help/donate
Tributes
"Shirleyan and family, You know how much we all thought of Gary and loved him so much! He was an amazing person, always made everyone feel special. Had a presence about him that made him even larger than life, hard to describe, but you know what I mean. Unimaginable for you to think you can go on without him, but you know what he would say and he is still with us in spirit! He is with our Lord and Savior and for that knowledge you have some peace! You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love to you all! Nancy Sippe"
"My heartfelt sympathy goes out to all the loved ones left behind. Gary's star will be a bright addition to the heavenly sky."
"Shirleyan, Scott, Eric and family, You all have been in my thoughts and prayers over the last week and will continue to be in the months to come. Gary was an amazing, intelligent man with a wonderful sense of humor and a loving heart. The world has lost one of the Great Ones and he will be deeply missed! Your sister in Christ, LeeSa Risor Death leaves a heartache no one can heal. Love leaves memories no one can steal. <3"
"Shirleyan and family, I am deeply saddened by the news of Gary's passing. I have nothing but sweet memories of him. We were so blessed when you brought him into our family and I feel honored to have known him. Loving thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love, Della & Brett"