Obituary of Donald R. Johnson

Donald Ray Johnson May 21, 1925 – February 20, 2018 Donald R. Johnson of Holiday, FL passed away on February 20, 2018. He is survived by his wife, Camilla (Holiday, FL), sons Mark Ladd Johnson (Portland, OR), Bradley O. Johnson (Belhaven, NC), Greg P. Johnson (New Port Richey, FL), Mike Burns (Orlando, FL), daughter Kim Sinclair (Pasadena, CA), and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter O. and Vada C. Johnson (Johnson City, TN), his wife, Beth Alice (Seattle, WA), and his brother, Jess Johnson (Johnson City, TN). Don was born May 21, 1925 in Pacoima, CA and grew up in Tillamook, OR, where he learned to love fishing, farming, hunting and outdoor living. His older brother, Jess, was instrumental in leading Don to the Lord and encouraging him in ministry. After serving four years in the US Army during WWII, where Don learned medicine and mechanics, Don began preparing for the ministry at Northwest Christian College in Eugene, OR, met and married his bride Beth Alice Ladd, and the two of them went on to Indiana for Don to study at Butler School of Religion in Indianapolis. Don and Beth Alice ministered at Worthington Christian Church (Worthington, IN), Lincoln Park Christian Church (Tacoma, WA), Lake Grove Christian Church (Portland, OR), and Shoreline Christian Church (Seattle, WA). In between, Don and Beth Alice served as church planting missionaries in Ethiopia (CMFI). Don’s growing up years on the rugged Oregon coast and his wide-ranging military experiences prepared him for life in rural Africa. Beth Alice passed away in 1980 in Seattle, WA. After their marriage, Don and Cam ministered at West Linn Christian Church (Portland, OR) and, after retirement, served four years in Kenya developing and building the Narok Church of Christ (CMFI). Don and Cam continued ministry on staff at Seaside Christian Church (Seaside, OR) and Florence Christian Church (Florence, OR) well in their retirement years. Don is well regarded as a preacher and pioneer missionary, but he is also known for the quality of his character. Don was committed to the Lord, faithful in ministry, and devoted to his family. Don and Cam were active members at Generations Christian Church (1540 Little Road, Trinity, FL 727.375.8801) where his Memorial Service will be held on Saturday March 10, 2018 at 10:00 AM. All are welcome to attend this service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Preston & Kristin (Don’s granddaughter) Coursey’s mission work in Thailand. CMFI, PO Box 501020, Indianapolis, IN 46250.