John Wesley Johnson, Sr., also known as, “The Midnight Barber”, was born in Paris, Kentucky, on May 20, 1932, to the late Rev. Johnny Johnson and Louella Winn. John peacefully entered into eternal rest on November 20, 2025.

John was a skilled barber and bravely defended his country as a U.S. Army Korean War veteran. John was a graduate of Dunbar High School and retired from First Security Bank earlier in life. He was a devoted Deacon of Main Street Baptist Church, a member of the MSBC Choir, and the owner of John Johnson’s Barbershop in Lexington, where he served his community with integrity, pride, and care for over 50 years.

He found joy in singing gospel hymns, especially his favorite, “Shine on Me,” which brought him deep comfort and peace. To his stepfamily, he was affectionately known as “Papa John,” a name that reflects the warmth, guidance, and unwavering support he generously gave.

John’s memory will forever be cherished by his devoted wife, Jane P. Donaldson, and his four children: Cynthia (Darrell) Mefford, Kenneth Johnson Sr., Linda (John) Vandyke, and John (Tracy) Johnson Jr. He is also survived by his five stepchildren: Maurice Donaldson, Teresa Donaldson, Michael Donaldson, Letha Donaldson, and Dean Donaldson.

He leaves behind his eight grandchildren—Allison Ross, Julianna Mefford, Kenneth (Serriea) Johnson Jr., Jasmine (Chris) Ellis, Chad Christopher, Sydney Johnson, Jaxson Johnson, and Olivia Johnson. John also leaves behind a beloved step-granddaughter, Shamika (Quanto) Richardson, with whom he shared a uniquely close bond, along with a host of step-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and dear friends, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

John is preceded in death by his first wife, the late Anna B. Johnson, infant son, John Johnson, and two brothers, Homer Johnson Sr. and Leon Johnson Sr. Though our hearts ache with this loss, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on through the love he shared and the memories he created.

May we remember John Wesley Johnson, Sr. as a man of unwavering faith, steadfast love, and a gentle, humble spirit. As we grieve, may we find solace in knowing he is at peace in the presence of God, surrounded by eternal love and grace.

“Psalm 23: 1-6: “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”

Well Done, Thy Good and Faithful Servant

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