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John Johnson Obituary
The San Francisco 49ers said in a release Saturday that Johnson, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987 after a 14-season NFL career, died in Tracy.
A member of the "Million Dollar Backfield," Johnson played three seasons for the 49ers (1954-56). A four-time Pro Bowler (1954, 1962-64), Johnson's 6,803 career yards rushing trailed only Jim Brown, Jim Taylor and former 49er Joe Perry upon his retirement in 1966. Johnson was also a productive receiver, catching 186 passes for 1,478 yards. He scored 55 touchdowns during his career.
Johnson also played one season in the CFL before joining San Francisco.
"I was deeply saddened to hear of John Henry Johnson's passing," said 49ers owner John York. "He was a good friend, not only to my family and me, but the entire 49ers organization. As a member of the "Million Dollar Backfield" he ho lds a cherished place in both 49ers and NFL history. His contributions to the game of football will be forever celebrated.
"Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the entire Johnson family."
That acclaimed backfield included three other future Hall of Famers: Perry, Hugh McElhenny and Y.A. Tittle. The group remains the only full-house backfield to have all four of its members enshrined in the Hall of Fame.
Drafted in the second round (18th overall) by the Steelers in 1953, Johnson went to play in the Canadian Football League for one season instead. He then joined San Francisco.
In his rookie year with the 49ers, Johnson ranked second in the league with 681 yards rushing and a 5.3-yard average, scoring nine touchdowns. He finished his three-year stint in San Francisco with 1,051 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns, 279 yards receiving on 38 receptions.
Johnson went on to play for the Detroit Lions (1957-59), Steelers (1960-65) and Houston Oilers (1966) of the American Football League. The Lions won their last NFL title with Johnson on the team in 1957.
Copyright © 2011 The Associated Press
31 Entries
Mary Martinez
February 1, 2013
So sorry that such a great man cannot live on forever in this world. But, he lives on in the hearts and memories many. I attended Alhambra High; but, everyone know John Henry Johnson. Peace be with him and his family
(Psalm 145:16) . . .You are opening your hand And satisfying the desire of every living thing.
Monica Henry
June 23, 2011
Ben Johnson
June 18, 2011
John HenryJ ohnson,
Our loss is God's Gain. I know you will look down upon us and see the best as it was and support those who may need help getting over the hump to achieve their goals in life. Thank you for allowing us to follow your great life!
Ben Johnson
Vice Mayor
City of Pittsburg
June 15, 2011
In behalf of the Class of 49, we wish to express our condolences on your loss and ours of this giant of a man and good friend of all of us as he was one of us and we were so proud of him and his career we followed all those years.
Ralph C. Ramirez for Class of 49
How you can show support
June 14, 2011
To Kathy and the family. We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. We will keep you in our prayers.
The Lewis (Harold), Jefferson (Murial)and Griffin (Millie) families
Bill
June 8, 2011
RIP Johnnie. I watched u play against the Chi. Cardinals and Ollie Matson @ ole Comisky park. We will miss u my friend. Bill/ Indiana
June 8, 2011
John Henry was a giant on the 49'ers. When I was a kid, I went to the old Kezar frequently to see him and the other greats: Perry, Arenas, McElhenny, Nomellini, St. Claire. I convey my deepest sympathy to his family. Emil De Guzman
margarette baum
June 7, 2011
he will be greatly missed by family fans and friends
June 7, 2011
I amso sorry for yourlost.I played aganist him manny times.Willie Brown
Kenneth Ford
June 7, 2011
One more great player from our childhood is now gone R.I.P. "John Henry" you left your mark!!!!!!!
June 7, 2011
We are truly sorry for your lost. In your time of bereavement, know that God assures us that we will see our loved ones again. I’m sure that with the help of our loving Heavenly Father, your family, and friends you will be able to endure this trial. May your memories give you comfort.
T. Gates, Stockbridge, GA
Davina
June 7, 2011
I am deeply sorry for the loss your family has suffered. During this time of sorrow please remember to Pour out your heart to God. For he himself is the hearer of prayers. (Psalms 65:2)
June 7, 2011
I remember seeing John Hery Johnson play in the old "Pitt" stadium back in the early 60's when my dad took us to see the Steelers play. They usually lost but he was definitely a bright spot on the team, breaking tackles and dragging would be tacklers along.
kenneth plas
June 6, 2011
i knew john henry when i worked for the LIONS as friday macklems asst equip mgr. RIP john henry, 'friday' will take care of your needs once again.
lil kenny will help again when i get there.
[email protected]
R Golay
June 6, 2011
To the the family of John Henry Johnson - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that he will be missed by many.
DENNY MARTIN
June 6, 2011
The Million Dollar Backfield is alive and well in Paradise.Praise the Lord.God has his offensive backfield now.My condolences to those of us left behind for a little while longer.Let us use it to reflect on the memories a great good man left behind as his everlasting legacy.....
June 6, 2011
TO THE FAMILY,I AM TRULY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS,BUT THERE IS A HOPE OF SEEING OUR LOVE ONE AGAIN AT HEBREW 11:17-19.AND ALSO LUKE 20;37,38.AW.HOUSTON,TX.
LOUIE WALLER
June 6, 2011
To the family of Jonh Henry:
It is with great saddness learning of the passing of John Henry. I have thought of the days many a time when John Henry played for the Steelers and the times we hung out together. It was just last week that I asked someone about John Henry because I hadn`t heard anything about him in a while. GOD BLESS and keep the family through these troubling times.
June 6, 2011
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
2 Corinthians 1:3,4
Victoria&Andrew
June 6, 2011
Sentiments Bleeds
in sorrow'
Condolences sent out to
John Henry,JohnsonFamily
A Strong Inspiration to All
Much Attitude of strong talent
with in a famous Sports icon'
Thank you JohnHenry~RIP~
John Hawley
June 6, 2011
As a die Hard New York Giants fan my Dad took me to Cornell University in 1964 where the Giants and Steelers were going to play an exhibition game. I saw all my Giant heroes that day, but my hidden secret was there also....my favorite running back of all time John Henry Johnson...what a great thrill to watch him run the football..The memory of watching him play will last a lifetime...God Bless you JHJ and thank you....
Faith K
June 6, 2011
A special friend I will always remember fondly.
Micheal L. Nesbitt
June 6, 2011
My Sincere Condolence...
Micheal L. Nesbitt
Burbank,CA.
Mike Lentz
June 6, 2011
I'm so glad I got a chance to see you play. You were one of the hardest running backs I ever saw...you went through defensive lines like a tank. Thanks for the great memories...you were a class act all the way around.
Doretha Turner
June 5, 2011
I went to Elementary School with John Henry in Waterproof La.Wewere classmates.He always love Football.
The family have my deepest symathy.
Bill Castro
June 5, 2011
Big John...as we knew him. He was truly a star in every sport in which he chose to particpate; football, basketball, track and baseball. He lettered in all at PHS, established many County school records and graduated in 1949. Although not covered by the media...even in table
tennis he was a winner. His personality was of the highest order and always respectful of those around him. Proud to have been one of his many team mates. I recall in a football huddle during a Antioch-Pittsburg Big Game... Big John said "I'm tired", so the quarterback gave him the ball on the next down...John took it for a game winning touchdown. Now it's time for a rest John...you'll be our star in heaven...rest in peace and God Bless.
--Pittsburg High School, Class of 1950
June 4, 2011
Condolences from Steeler Nation.
June 4, 2011
Go Steelers!!
Modesto Velazquez Jr.
June 4, 2011
May God Bless the memory of John Henry, from a PHS graduate, class of 1974. I never met or seen him in action, but I've read alot about him. May The Lord give comfort to the family at this difficult time. I'm a Tour Guide in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and part of my information is on the personalities from my small town of Pittsburg, Ca. And John Henry is one of the people I talk about. So the memory of John Henry will continue to be talked about here in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
God Bless
gene h
June 3, 2011
As an 8 or 9 year old, I remember attending a father-son breakfast at our church in SF where John Henry Johnson was the guest speaker. He spoke well and I followed his career with close interest after that meeting. Peace and condolences to his family. I hope you were happy with your life and Rest in Peace, Mr Johnson.
jim klaczak
June 3, 2011
A great man--- rest in peace
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