Robert L. Johnson

On October 17, 1955, the world was blessed with the presence of Robert Lee Johnson. He was born in Baltimore, Maryland, to the late Nell Johnson Wade and Linwood Wade. On January 27, 2026, he peacefully departed this life. He was a devoted husband and caring father.

Robert was lovingly known as "Reds" and Rob" by family and friends. Growing up, his mother always encouraged her children to do their very best, no matter what they did. He received his early education through the Baltimore City Public School System and proudly graduated. 

Robert married Neomia in 1983, from this union they had two children Gerard and Jeran Johnson. In the 1980's he played basketball with his wife. He took care of her through her illness until her departure in 2017.

Robert was a man of resiliency, he lived a life rooted in dedication, service and hard work. He was a master in water and waste operations, he faithfully served his community for over 50 years with the Baltimore City Department of Public Works, proudly working within the Sewage Utility Maintenance Division on Franklin Street in West Baltimore. There he served as a respected supervisor and mentor, known for his leadership, discipline, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Rob's call number 707 was recognized by many. His presence and expertise was so valued that when he announced his retirement in 2024, they begged him not to leave. Affectionately regarded as the "King of the Utility Maintenance Division "Robert earned his title through decades of loyalty, skill and quiet authority. He supervised and trained many, leaving an indelible mark on those who worked beside him. 

A true craftsman, Robert had gifted hands. Trades that were passed down through generations were his hobbies which included Woodwork, carpentry, and home improvement. These things were not just skills but passions. Reds was known as a jack of all trades able to build, repair and restore anything with precision and care.

He loved music and kept an impressive vinyl collections, spanning from old-school classics to hip hop. He enjoyed lifting weights exercising and staying active. He flexed his muscles for fun. Sports were another great love, whether watching ESPN, boxing, basketball, or football, he proudly spectated.

Robert was disciplined and quietly strong. Life brought adversity, but he faced them with a steady spirit. He was a provider and a diligent servant. He would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation. He was not a man of many words, but he was a man of action, showing his love through what he did for those he loved. He consistently helped others out of difficult situations often without seeking recognition.  

He found joy in life's simple pleasures. He faithfully played the lottery and even had a habit of saving his non-winning tickets for good luck-always believing the next one might be the winner. That quiet optimism was simply part of who he was.

More than anything, Robert cherished his family. He loved his children and remained a constant, grounding presence in their lives. His love ran deep, steady and genuine. He was preceded in death by his wife. Naomi Johnson; his parents. Nell and Linwood Wade; and his brothers, Earl Johnson, Michael Johnson, Theodore Maurice Johnson and Charles Wade.

He leaves to cherish the memory of his children, Jeran Johnson and Gerard Johnson; his siblings, Wilma Sweeney of NC (Charles Sweeney), Lynn Patricia Johnson, Fay Johnson, Lenny Johnson, Nichelle Johnson Washington (Clayton Washington), a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws and extended family members. He also leaves behind close friends Briscoe, Paula, neighbors, coworkers and friends. He was truly loved by many and will be deeply missed.