Richard E. Johnson

Beloved husband, father, mentor, and man of integrity

Richard E. Johnson passed away peacefully surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of love, integrity, and quiet strength that will be felt for generations.

Richard was the devoted husband of nearly 68 years to his beloved wife, Joyce “Joy” Johnson, who passed away just three months before him. After a lifetime spent side by side, Richard longed to be reunited with her—and now he has gone home to her, where their love continues forever. Together they built a life filled with purpose, laughter, and deep devotion to their family.

Born with a natural curiosity and a strong sense of responsibility, Richard devoted his life to learning, teaching, and improving the world around him. He served as Head Engineer for the City of Portland, where his knowledge, creativity, and steady leadership earned him the respect of colleagues and city officials alike. During his time with the city, he was selected in the late 1970s to participate in a sister city project with Sapporo, Japan, an honor that reflected both his professional excellence and his ability to connect across cultures with warmth and respect.

Beyond his work with the city, Richard shared his expertise by teaching engineering at Portland Community College (PCC). As a teacher, he was patient, encouraging, and deeply committed to helping others succeed. His students remember him not only for his technical skill, but for his humility and his genuine interest in seeing others grow.

Richard’s love of learning extended far beyond the classroom or the office. He was a man who embraced challenge and adventure, whether it was tackling a complex project or scaling a mountain. He climbed both Mount Hood and Mount Rainier, experiences that embodied his lifelong belief in perseverance, preparation, and courage.

At the heart of Richard’s life was his family. Together with Joy, he raised nine children, each of whom carries a piece of his wisdom, humor, and steadfast love. He led by example, teaching through his actions what it meant to live with honesty, compassion, and faith. His home was one of warmth and welcome, where laughter was frequent, curiosity was encouraged, and integrity was non-negotiable.

Richard will be remembered as a man who built things—bridges, friendships, and a family legacy that will endure. He found joy in hard work, peace in the outdoors, and strength in his faith and his marriage. His quiet confidence and unwavering kindness touched countless lives.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know him. Though his presence will be missed, his influence will continue to guide those he loved, reminding them always to live with purpose, gratitude, and grace.

Together again, Richard and Joy are home.

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