Michael M. Johnson

Michael Morris Johnson, age 76, passed away peacefully in his home in Baltimore Maryland on April 4, 2024. Mike was born in Baltimore, Maryland on May 19th, 1947 to the late Esther Theodate Morris and Oakland Johnson. He is survived by his siblings, Leland Johnson and Leona Adams; his daughters, Candace (Mark Tomczak), Carolyn (Kwincy Chinn) and Michelle Johnson. Also grandchildren Aaron William Liles, Jr.(Cynnamon), Kahleil Daughtery, Kalel Hammond, Eric LittleJohn and his great-grandchildren Saibra Liles, Kaleb Liles, Kareem Johnson, Kirstyn Liles and  Kennedi Liles.

Mike was preceded in death by his siblings, Victoria Adams, Vivian Montague, Lucille Bell, Melvin Johnson and Leslie Johnson.

After graduating from Douglass High School, Mike embarked on a journey of service and dedication. He held various jobs as an orderly and restaurant worker before answering the call of duty to his country.

In 1967, Mike volunteered to join the US Army, exemplifying his deep sense of duty and patriotism. He bravely served two tours in Vietnam, where he demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience. During this timeframe, he volunteered to fulfill the service obligation of his brother Leslie. Mike’s valor was recognized with the prestigious Bronze Star for his acts of heroism during the Tet Offensive. In responding to the surprise engagement, there was no time to stop and protect his ears. He consequently endured partial hearing loss.

In 1969, after his first Vietnam tour, Mike returned home to marry Rosalie. Having completed his second Vietnam tour and his Army service, Mike and Rose built a life together and were blessed with three daughters. Though their journey had its ups and downs, their love endured. After a period of separation ending in divorce, and after Mike’s marriage to his second wife, Brenda, Mike and Rosalie remarried in 2013, cherishing the bond they shared until their parting in 2020.

Throughout his civilian career, Mike was a dedicated employee at Maryland Clay Products in Laurel Maryland where he served as a Machinist and later became the head of the Labor Union. When Maryland Clay Products closed its doors, Mike transferred to Rockwood Pigments, where he continued to work until his well-deserved retirement in 2014.

In addition to his professional achievements, Mike was a family man who cherished spending time with his loved ones. He was known for his kind heart and generous spirit, always willing to lend a helping hand. Mike had a passion for Country Western music which brought him joy and comfort throughout his life. As the eldest son, he was very close to his Mother, siblings and nieces and nephews. Specifically, sister Lucille Bell and nephew Anthony Johnson, who both tended and cared for him as his illness progressed.

Michael Morris Johnson will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of service, strength and love will continue to inspire us for generations to come. Though he may be gone from our sight, he will forever remain in our hearts.