Obituary
William James Johnson, age 79, of South Haven, Michigan, passed away Saturday, September 16, 2017. He was born May 29, 1938, the Son of Mabry and Mary Virginia Johnson. A native of Kalamazoo Michigan William was preceded in death by his parents Mabry and Mary Virginia Johnson, along with his brother's Booker Carter, John Johnson and David Johnson. William was a wonderful man, husband, father, and friend to many. A lover of music, good food, and good company. Known for his cheerful ways and corny jokes. He loved to make people laugh, and had a smile that could light up the room. Early in life, William was a member of Mount Zion Church in Kalamazoo, MI where his parents were founding members. He graduated from Kalamazoo central in 1958, and went on to Western Michigan University with a focus in Social Work. William was a star athlete while in high school and college with the highlight of breaking a World Indoor Track Relay Record while running for WMU. With a career in Social Work, William had a knack for supporting others around him. Working over 40 years in public service, William was employed as the first African American Manager of a government funded housing property in Kalamazoo County. He retired from the Van Buren County health department where he worked as a Mental Health Case Manager. William leaves behind his wife, Theresa Johnson of South Haven, his sons Kelvin Scott Johnson of Pensacola Florida and step-son Derryk Rodney Priestley of Kalamazoo (both of a previous marriage with Dorothy of Pensacola Florida) step children Lawrence Lewis of Salina Kansas and Frederick Lewis of Anaheim California, and step-daughter Edith McSpadden of Pullman Michigan. Also left behind are his brother Joel Johnson (Dolores) of Oakwood Village Ohio, 19 grandchildren (Leah Brunt, Joshua Lewis, and Earlina Love,) 4 great-grandchildren and a host of cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends. Visitation for family and friends will take place Saturday, September 23rd, 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM at Fibrandt Funeral home in South Haven Michigan. Cards, flowers and such can be made out to Theresa Johnson and Family and sent to 74642 16th Avenue South Haven, MI 49090.