HARRY JOHNSON

A Profile of Life

Today we remember the life of Harry Johnson, a cherished member of our community, who passed away peacefully on April 13, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana, surrounded by the warmth of his family. Harry was born on August 30, 1941, in   Columbus, Georgia to the parents of the late Robert Johnson and Mollie Jones Johnson. Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by Robert G. Johnson, Leon Johnson, his twin brother, Harold Johnson; three sisters, Patricia Ragster, Mary Barmore and Cecelia Mainor.

Harry’s journey began in the southern warmth of Columbus, Georgia where his early years were filled with the kind adventures that would shape a generous and loving man. Harry graduated from William H. Spencer High School in 1959 and remained active in the school’s alumni association, and continued his education at Purdue University, Indianapolis Campus, where he studied from 1961 to 1963, laying the foundation for a future as bright as his smile. His professional path led him to a fulfilling career at United Technologies Carrier, where he dedicated many years before his well-deserved retirement. His work ethic and commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on his colleagues and the industry.

Beyond his professional life, Harry was a man of many interests. Harry was a lifetime member of NAACP, a member of the United Steel Workers Union, Vice President of the Indiana Chapter of APRI, Second Vice-President of the Central Indiana Chapter of CBTU, and treasurer of the National Organization of Client Advocates (NOCA). He was also a board member of Indiana Legal Services, Inc., and served two terms as president. Harry served two terms on the NLADA board of directors, served two terms on the NLADA Civil Council, served one term as chairperson of the NLADA Client Council, and served as the convener for the NLADA Client Section from 2001-2008. Harry served on the UNSWA Local 4315 Civil Rights Committee from 1969-1986. Harry was a member of Bethel AME Church serving on the Parker Usher Board, Crusaders Choir, Trustee Board from 1986-1990 and the Indiana A.M.E. Lay Male Chorus.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Harry’s passion for gardening was evident to all who knew him. His garden was not just a testament to his green thumb but also a place of solace and joy. He found tranquility among the blossoms and leaves, and his garden became a sanctuary for family, friends, and neighbors, where he shared both his harvest and wisdom.

Those who knew Harry will remember him as a man of faith, whose actions spoke louder than words. He embodied the spirit of generosity, always willing to lend a hand or share a kind word. Harry had a gift for making everyone he met feel cherished and valued, a quality that resonated in every interaction, every shared moment.

Harry’s family was the center of his universe. He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia A. Johnson, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories and unconditional love. Together they nurtured a family that grew to include their children, Harry Bernard Johnson, Travae D. Johnson, and Jeremiah J. Johnson. His role as a father was one of his greatest joys and proudest achievements. 

The family tree continued to flourish with the arrival of his grandson, Harry Bernard Johnson, Jr., and his great-grandsons, Isaiah and Adam Johnson, who brought him immeasurable happiness.

He leaves to cherish his memories, three sisters-in-law, two brothers-in-law, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and his church family.

Harry Johnson’s life was one well-lived, marked by the immeasurable impact he had on his family and community. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary man, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of love, generosity, and faith that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him. Today, we celebrate Harry, a man who was not just the heart of his family, but a light in the lives of all who knew him.

Thank you for joining us as we honor the life of   Harry Johnson. The memories and lessons he imparted will continue to guide and comfort us all. We remember him not in sorrow but with a smile, for in the stories we share and the memories we hold, he remains with us, a guiding light for the path ahead. Harry’s journey through life was a beacon of what it means to live with purpose and passion, and for that, we are forever grateful.

Humbly Submitted…………..The Family

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of HARRY JOHNSON, please visit our floral store.