Obituary: Robert Claude Johnson

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Robert Claude Johnson, 87, of Vinemont, Alabama passed away Monday, Oct. 19, 2020. Robert was born Nov. 16, 1932.

Mr. Johnson was a longtime member of Vinemont First Baptist; he also served as a deacon and was in the choir. He also served as a Shriner and was a member of the Vinemont Masonic Lodge. Robert was a big Alabama fan and cheered his team on every chance he could.

Robert began his career in the Air Force as a B-Class engineer, serving during the Korean War. He then worked for the space and aeronautics industry. Robert was very proud of having helped develop the boosters for the Saturn V, which allowed for the first man to walk on the moon. Later in his career, Robert owned the Vinemont Lumber Company then retired while working maintenance for Dunlop Tire.

Robert is survived by his wife of 66 years and 7 months, Joy Bradford Johnson; daughters Dawn Campbell (Rickey) and Julie Childers (Kenneth); sons Brad Johnson (Donna) and Kirk Johnson (Tiffani); daughter by choice Bonnie Joy Heatherly (Mike); sister Christine Gentry; grandchildren Jeffrey Frederick (Stacey), Jamie Frederick, Zachary Self, Daniel Johnson (Kalyn), Brandi Howard (Wesley), Kyle Johnson, Lea Johnson, Justin Brown, and Emily Horstman (Ross); seven great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; his beloved female pug dog Pudgie; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Robert was preceded in death by parents James Claude and Ellon Carter Johnson; sister Louise Basenburg (Harrell); brothers JD Johnson and Charles Johnson (Linda); and brother-in-law Leon Gentry.

A visitation for Robert will be held Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020 from 5-7 p.m. at Moss Service Funeral Home. He will lie in state Thursday, Oct. 22, 2020 from 1-2 p.m. at Vinemont Baptist Church with a celebration of life funeral service following. Rev. Kerry Cleghorn will officiate the service and interment will occur at Vinemont Baptist Cemetery following the service.

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