Obituary of Thomas R. Johnson

Thomas R. Johnson – age 89 of Union, KY and former long-time resident of Walton, KY passed away on February 28, 2022 while spending the winter in Astor, FL.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents JB and Olive Hillerman Johnson; loving wife of 55 years Shirley Johnson; and his beautiful daughter Jenny Johnson.  Tom is survived by his daughter Alexa Johnson and his favorite grand-dog Frosty Ray as well as a host of irreplaceable friends.

Tom was proud veteran of the United States Air Force, a graduate of both Walton-Verona High School and University of Kentucky.  Tom was a 50 year member of the American Legion Post 0277 in Walton and a 47 year member of the Phoenix Lodge 719 F & AM.

Tom retired from Triple Crown Country Club as a grounds keeper (as a second career). He loved this job the most because of the co-workers and wonderful boss (who also became a true friend, Mark Hicks).  Even after retirement, Tom loved visiting the maintenance barn on Friday afternoons and having lunch on Mondays.

Tom was a die-hard University of Kentucky basketball fan. He still teared up if he heard a recording of Caywood Ledford singing “My Old Kentucky Home”.  Tom was an avid crappie fisherman in Florida and loved to school his “boys” on catching fish and cleaning them properly.  Most of all, Tom loved his family and lived his life to love and care for them.  He was blessed with incredible friends who looked out for him after the loss of his wife and oldest daughter.  He treasured his “boys” and their wives.Tom will be greatly missed by his daughter Alexa and Frosty and the many friends who have enriched his life through the years. 

On Wednesday, March 16th, 2022 at 11:30 AM, a graveside service will be held to celebrate and honor Tom's life at Walton Cemetery, 30 Church St., Walton, KY 41094.  He will then be laid to rest next to his wife Shirley.  Directly following, a small gathering of friends will be held at Triple Crown Country Club, 1 Triple Crown Blvd, Union, KY 41091. All are welcome to attend one or the other or both special events.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to one of the following charities: Xenia Grace Chapel – Student Ministries, 100 Grace Drive Xenia, OH 45385 (Alexa is a volunteer with this ministry) or Aucado (Australian Cattle Dog Rescue),  3861 12 Mile Road, Remus, MI 49340 (this is the rescue which saved Frosty). If you would like to share a memory, photo or online condolence for Tom's family, please visit the corresponding tabs on this page.