Josiah Louis Johnson's Obituary
Josiah Louis Johnson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2025, in Alexandria, Louisiana. Born on May 9, 1932, in the small town of Johnsonville to Huel and Gladys Wisby Johnson, Josiah lived a life rich with love and laughter that touched everyone who knew him.
He is survived by his devoted wife Barbara Johnson of Pitkin; daughters Deborah Wise (Terry) of Mora; Rhonda Haymon (John) of Ruston; and Shelia Johnson of Pitkin. He leaves behind a legacy through his seven cherished grandchildren and an abundance of great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to his heart. He also leaves behind sisters Arlene Cook, Eloise Pemberton, and Karen DuFour—each one holding precious memories that will forever remain etched in their hearts.
Josiah was preceded in death by his son Jerry Johnson, daughter Vickie Griffin brothers Billy Ray Johnson and W.E. Johnson and sister Opie Deason.
A man known for his vibrant spirit and infectious humor, Josiah was an avid storyteller whose jokes could light up any room. His playful nature often led him to play pranks that would leave friends chuckling long after he had left the scene. Beyond laughter lies another passion: gardening. With hands deep in the soil nurturing plants or tending to cows on his property—a testament to both hard work and love for nature—he found peace amidst the beauty around him.
His service in the Army as a cook instilled values of dedication that carried into every aspect of his life—from being a skilled electrical lineman providing for his family to sharing meals filled with warmth at home surrounded by loved ones.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 15th at Marlow Baptist Church in Pitkin at 1:00 PM with Bro. Matt Marler officiating. Burial will follow at Drakes Fork Cemetery under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home from Leesville. Visitation is scheduled for Friday evening from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM as well as Saturday morning from 10:00 AM until time for service at the church.
As we gather together to celebrate Josiah's remarkable journey through life—a tapestry woven with kindness—the stories shared among family members will echo like laughter across generations reminding us all how deeply he loved life itself. The family is honored to serve as pallbearers.
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