Roger Lee Johnson, 87, of Galesburg, Illinois, died peacefully with his family by his side at 1:30 a.m. Monday, October 21, 2024, at Seminary Manor, Galesburg.
Roger was born June 29, 1937, in Galesburg, the son of Fredrick Joseph and Beatrice Francis (McCulloch) Johnson. He graduated from Galesburg High School. Roger proudly served in the US Air Force for 22 years, retiring as a Master Sargeant in 1976. During his enlistment, he served in the Vietnam War. He later went on to work for several years as a driver for Dental Arts Laboratories, retiring in 1999.
Roger married Sharon Ann McKelvie on July 3, 1954, and together they had four children all of whom survive, Rogann (Michael) Hensley of Riverview, Florida, William Johnson of Jacksboro, Tennessee, Larry (Sher) Johnson of Jacksboro, Tennessee, and Sheri Hammans of Martinsville, Indiana. Roger and Sharon later divorced. He then married Sheila Joy Spencer on June 5, 1977, in Williamsfield, Illinois. Sheila survives of Galesburg as do eight grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; one brother, Larry (Phyliss) Johnson of Galesburg; and two sisters, Mary (Wendell) Yeast of Galesburg and Ileen McDorman of Galesburg. Along with his parents, Roger was preceded in death by one brother, Edward; one sister, Carol Ann Johnson; a grandson, Brian Hensley; and a great granddaughter.
Roger was a member of the Disabled American Veterans and lifetime member and volunteer of the AMVETS. He was also a volunteer for Central Illinois Sheltie Rescue. Roger was a model train enthusiast. He enjoyed working on and repairing computers for people. Most of all, his devotion and pride to his country and family meant the world to him. He raised his children to love and honor God, our country, and their families. Roger will be lovingly remembered for how kind and thoughtful he was to others.
Visitation will be 2-3 p.m. Thursday, October 24, 2024, at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Funeral Services with military rites conducted by the Knox County Honor Guard will follow at 3 p.m. Chaplain Kevin Eack will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to Tunnel to Towers or to Central Illinois Sheltie Rescue. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.