In Loving Memory of Tony Johnson

"The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord." – Job 1:21 For we know, "From God I came, and to Him I shall return."

We celebrate the life of Tony Johnson, a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. A man of conviction, he lived life on his own terms. His vibrant spirit, natural charisma, and warm presence were a gift to those blessed to know him.

Born on September 12, 1958, in Akron, Ohio, and on September 4, 2025, he returned peacefully to be with the Lord.  Shaped by family and life experiences, Tony was preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Lillian Johnson Sr., wife Lisa Johnson, brother Arthur Johnson Jr., sister Julia (Judy) Fields, and son Bradley Johnson.

He lived a life filled with love, laughter, and purpose. He was a proud father to Angela Alexander, Anthony (Katasha) Jones, Tonika L. Hammonds, Travalas T. Hammonds, Tony Michael Johnson, Chris Johnson, and a man who wore many hats. Tony's life was marked by empathy for others, joy in small things, and a faith that carried him through until the end. In his own words, he was at peace, knowing he was right with God and grateful for the good life he had lived. Tony knew love—and to him, that was what truly mattered.

Tony was an avid runner who often cleared his head by running 20+ miles through the streets of Akron. Tony's passion didn't end at the city's edge, he carried a playful spirit, he loved the excitement of a good card game or trip to the casino, and he had a deep love for food—sharing meals as one of his favorite ways to show love. He delighted in discovering new flavors, savoring old favorites, and treating others to a good meal. One of his favorites, House of Hunan in Fairlawn, Ohio, became a weekly tradition and a place where the staff reserved a special spot just for him, knowing he would bring his warmth, good energy and sense of humor through the door.

Professionally, Tony dedicated more than 40 years to the Manchester Tool Company, where his expertise and skill with programming led to repeated requests for him to step into a supervisory role. Though he humbly declined initially, Tony eventually pursued higher education, earning degrees in design and mechanical engineering from Stark State College in 2002 and 2003 respectively.  Tony was smart.  With his love for physics, math and his unique ability to understand and program the equipment, he became the only employee retained and transferred to Harrisburg, Virginia after Manchester Tool was acquired by Kennametal. He made a home there for several years before ultimately returning to his beloved Akron, Ohio.

The baby of the family, Tony is survived by his sister Shawn Jackson, brother William (Billie) Johnson, brother Oscar Lawrence, sister Rochelle Lawrence Turner, sister Estelle Marie Brown, his children (listed above); special friend, Doreen Grandison, as well as a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.

Though we mourn his passing, we choose to celebrate his amazing life and the legacy he leaves behind.  Strong-willed, determined, and headstrong are just a few of the qualities that made him both a force and a foundation for those who loved him. He was also handsome, generous, playful, joyous, had a huge heart, a great smile and an unshakeable love for his children and his family.

As we gather to remember him, let us hold tight to the memories and know that, just as Tony came from God to God he has peacefully returned. "We believe he would want you to know that he is now joyfully reunited with his loved ones. And if you find yourself shedding tears, take comfort in imagining him smiling and saying one of his favorite phrases: 'C'mon, mane!'"