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Robert Johnson Obituary
Durham
The Right Rev. Robert C. Johnson, Jr., 75, tenth bishop of North Carolina, died on Friday, January 3. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Connie Smith Johnson; son, Robert Kinley Johnson (David Oxender); daughter, Julie Johnson Hege (Pike); three grandson, Ens. Daniel Robert Hege (Emily), Adam Bolanos Hege (Liliana) and Jacob Johnson Hege; two great grandsons, Henry Hege and Lucas Bolanos Hege; sister, Janette St. Vincent; 7 nieces and 5 nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Mille Thomas.
Bishop Johnson was born in Columbus, Georgia to Robert C. and Mildred Little Johnson. He graduated from Columbus High School and Mercer University. He had a master's degrees from Yale Divinity School and NC State, and honorary doctorates from the University of the South and Berkeley at Yale.
Bishop Johnson served the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina for 37 years at St. Peter's Charlotte; St. Paul's, Smithfield; St. Christopher's, Garner; St. Luke's, Durham; and as diocesan bishop until his retirement. He was an outstanding preacher and devoted pastor.
Bishop Johnson was a founder of Habitat for Humanity in Durham, a volunteer for the crisis hotline and a member of Tobaccoland Kiwanis Club.
A memorial service will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, January 11 at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 1737 Hillandale Rd. in Durham. Contributions in his memory may be made to St. Luke's Memorial Fund. Arrangements are with Hall-Wynne Funeral Service.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Johnson
4 Entries
Phyllis Gordon
January 6, 2014
Bob was a great man - a great preacher, pastor, and friend. He & Connie welcomed us when we landed at St. Luke's the first Sunday after we moved to North Carolina in 1985, and he provided compassion, spiritual direction, and intelligence throughout the years we lived in Durham. He was the best preacher I ever heard. We were honored to attend his consecration as Bishop. He provided a nurturing environment for congregation, clergy, and staff; when we first joined St. Luke's, the remarkable Brooks Graebner (now of St. Matthew's in Hillsborough) was Transitional Deacon, and Anne Hodges-Copple was the intern at the beginning of her discernment process (she's now Bishop Suffragan of our diocese after having also served as Rector at St. Luke's). I became an Episcopalian because of Bob. His influence continues to be far-reaching. I hope that his family and friends find comfort in the affection and esteem in which he was held.
Genie Williford
January 5, 2014
Reverend Johnson was a huge influence on my spiritual life. He baptized, confirmed, and officiated at my wedding as well as helped me get established when I first moved to Durham, NC for my first teaching job. I am so sorry to learn of his passing. My thoughts are with his family. Though he has gone on to join our Heavenly Father, he will not be forgotten here.
zelda kenedy
January 5, 2014
Dear Connie,
My heart breaks with this news. He was one of my favorite bishops. I appreciated his support and affirmation. Truly loved his preaching!!!!
Jim Lee
January 5, 2014
Bob, your steady hand and voice will be missed. Connie, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
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