Reuben Johnson

JOHNSON, REUBEN

REUBEN LEE JOHNSON of St. Simons Island, GA, cherished by his family, died Wednesday, January 4, 2006 at the hospital in Brunswick GA. He was born October 7, 1922, and was raised in Fairburn GA. He joins his wife of 64 years Mary Mobley Johnson, who passed away in October 2005, in an above ground crypt at Mt. Zion Cemetery, five miles West of Dallas GA. Inscribed on both sides of the crypt is his motto, "Let's all work for a kinder, gentler, and more caring community".Reuben is survived by his daughter, Joy Stow, grandson Steve Stow, granddaughter Sharon Stow Acosta, Jim Acosta and his great-granddaughter, Hartley Acosta, as well as two brothers, Kirby Johnson and Hugh Johnson, and their families. Reuben, a University of Georgia graduate began his career as a teacher of Vocational Agriculture in rural Georgia His Washington career began in 1951 and he joined the National Farmers Union three years later. He was involved in the passage of every major farm bill between 1954 and 1981, and considered his support and the success of the Food Stamp program his most satisfying accomplishment, followed by his support of the Food for Peace program. His final tour of duty on Capital Hill was as agriculture aide to Nebraska Senator Edward Zorinsky. Reuben received the national award for Meritorious Service to the Farmers Union and to American Agriculture in 1994. National Politics was always a daily concern to Reuben, and he relished engaging in civil discourse. He had great sensitivity, even though he rubbed elbows with presidents and Senators, he always supported the interests of the least advantaged in our society. Reuben always said, "I am a citizen of the World". Reuben realized his dream to retire to the Golden Isles, moving to St. Simons Island in Georgia around 10 years ago. Services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Habitat for Humanity of South Fulton County GA, P.O. Box 82223, Hopeville, GA 30354. Funeral arrangements are being made by EDO MILLER AND SONS FUNERAL HOME in Brunswick, GA (912) 265-3636.