Robert E. Johnson Jr.

Robert Edmund Johnson Jr., 62, of Framingham, died Thursday, May 29, 2014 at the Framingham Union Hospital. Born in Framingham, he was the son of the late Dr. Robert E. and Dr. Lorna (Drummond) Johnson. At the age of 2, Bob was stricken with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, which left him physically disabled, but could not disable his wonderful spirit or courage. Bob was a graduate of Framingham South High School class of 1969 and Brandeis University, class of 1973, majoring in Greek and Latin . He received his MBA from Boston University. His first venture in business occurred in elementary school when he operated Bobs Candy Inc. This set the stage for his future successful endeavors as a businessman. Having difficulty obtaining a job because of his disability, he established Johnsons Auto Literature, Inc., which grew to 10 employees. Buying and selling antique automobile literature at flea markets, in Hemmings Motor News and on the Internet, he developed a worldwide clientele, including Jay Leno, among others. His booths at Carlisle and Hershey Automotive Swap Meets were well attended and quite profitable. A lover of antiquity, he enjoyed collecting early American antiques and prints, as well as rebuilding antique cars and trucks. Most of all, Bob was known for his acerbic wit and tender heart. He also had a soft spot for cats, particularly tuxedo cats. Bob is survived by his sister, Amy Johnson, MD of Rochester; nieces, Devon Drummond Johnson of Rochester and Sarah Lyons Duncan, as well as her husband Mark and their daughter, Grace Laurel Duncan, of North Andover; nephew Christopher Samuel Lyons of Portsmouth, NH, and cousins Chrissy and Torry of Nashville, TN, as well as many beloved friends and, of course, his cherished cat, Smudgie. He was the brother of the late Laurel Muffin Lyons, MD and James Samuel Johnson. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral service on Tuesday, June 3, 2014 at 11 AM in the Edgell Memorial Chapel at Edgell Grove Cemetery, 53 Grove St. Framingham followed by his burial. At the familys request, there will be no visiting hours. Arrangements are under the direction of Norton Funeral Home, 53 Beech St., Framingham. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in Bobs memory may be made to Tufts Animal Hospital, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA 01536. For online guest book and directions please log onto www.nortonfuneralhome.com.