Arthur "John-Arthur" Allan Johnson, Sr. was born to loving parents, Albert David Johnson and Inez Carrie Black Johnson, on April 17, 1954, in Sylvania, Georgia. Eventually, the family relocated to Savannah, Georgia, where the Johnsons had five more children. As the oldest, Arthur was a role model and friend to his younger brothers and sisters.

From a young age, Arthur found solace and guidance in his faith at the family’s place of worship, St. Thomas A.M.E. Church. He actively participated in Sunday School and church activities and served as an usher and choir member. Alongside his religious pursuits, Arthur also showcased his talents as a scout, track athlete, and sketch artist.

In 1973, Arthur reached a significant milestone in his educational journey by graduating from Alfred E. Beach High School. Throughout his time there, he excelled academically and was a member of the school choir. After completing his studies, he made a selfless decision to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force.

For two decades, Arthur devoted himself to the noble cause of defending his nation. Rising through the ranks to the esteemed position of Technical Sergeant, he received numerous honors and commendations for his exemplary service. Not only did he fulfill his duties within the United States, but he also proudly served in Germany and the Persian Gulf. Arthur's thirst for knowledge never waned; even amidst his military responsibilities, he continued his education at the University of Maryland, Europe, from which he graduated with a Business Administration degree in 1994. In 1996, Arthur retired from the military as an Information and Communications Specialist.

After retiring from the military, Arthur settled in Atlanta, Georgia, where he enjoyed an active life. After earning a second degree from a local travel school, his professional path included roles at Winn-Fresh, Vacation Express, and Delta Airlines. His last employer was Manning and Associates Security Company, where he was a valued employee. Recently retired, he was collaborating with a travel agency for a fall trip to Niagara Falls, New York. Arthur was also a regular member of Beulah Missionary Baptist Church and occasionally shared online services with family members. Arthur had wonderful friends and would often recall the precious moments they spent together celebrating each other’s landmarks and accomplishments.

Arthur delighted in exploring the world and immersing himself in different cultures. For most of his Air Force career, he was stationed in Germany, a country he loved and hoped to visit again. His time there allowed him to travel extensively throughout Europe and beyond. After returning to the United States, he continued to travel, visiting countless countries and cities. Arthur’s most recent excursion took him to the South Pacific, specifically Fiji, where, in typical Arthur fashion, he enjoyed all aspects, including the food, people, and open market shopping.

Known for his gentle nature and endearing quirkiness, Arthur had a passion for culinary creations, often cooking delicious meals on Sundays. In his leisure time, he took delight in tuning in to talk radio, watching classic TV shows, exploring unique locations, and capturing moments through the lens of his camera. One memorable quest took place while visiting family in Detroit, where he could not resist visiting American Jewelry and Loan, a pawn shop that gained fame through a reality TV show he watched.

Arthur's final adventure took place at the Renaissance Festival in Atlanta. During that outing, he fell ill. The following day, while he waited for his meal to warm, Arthur took a break in his favorite chair and peacefully passed away. In addition to his wife, Vickie Anderson, and their son, Arthur Jr. ("AJ"), he was preceded in death by his brother, Vernon Johnson. Arthur is survived by his daughters, Kara and Karynda, as well as his siblings Veronica (Ralph Ford), Donna (Branson Coulter), Eric (Jena Johnson), and Terry (Anthony Poore). He also leaves behind grandchildren James, Jacqua, and Jacoby, as well as great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Arthur will be fondly remembered by his close and cherished friends: William Thornton, Novice Allen, Doris Anderson, Phillip Burgess, Wendy Copeland, Alvin Crisp, Yvonne Griffin, Lionel Martin, and others.

John-Arthur Allan Johnson, Sr., left his mark on the world, enriching the lives of those he encountered with his kindness, humor, and zest for life. As we bid him farewell, may his spirit of adventure and love for family and friends inspire us to cherish each moment and embrace our own unique journeys.

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