DR. THOMAS "TOMMY" JOHNSON

I was Tommy's trumpet teacher for a while at the Kansas City Conservatory. I reconnected with him about five years ago when he sent me a newsy e-mail about his life. He mentioned that during one lesson I pulled out his tuning slide and broke his horn. I didn't remember that but wrote back and apologized. I'm sorry that I hadn't heard him play in his adult life. From what others have said he was a marvelous trumpet player. Also from what I have heard he was a marvelous fellow. I was saddened...

Tommy was one of the happiest and most congenial guys I ever met. He was always a joy to play tennis with--or against. We are all poorer for his passing.

I had the privilege of hearing Tommy play and shaking his hand once. What an example of the best qualities a human being can express; even to a stranger.

On behlaf of the Executive Committee, at-Large Board of Directors and Membership of the Mutual Musicians Foundation, allow this transmission to extend our heartfelt condolences. We also thank the family and friends of Dr. Johnson, for the financial contributions we are receiving from his family and friends in his honor and memorialize the love for music through these financial gifts to the Foundation. These gifts will benefit greatly...Clarence Smith/Chair, Will Matthews/President, Anita...

It was a great shock to find out about Tommy's passing. What a kind soul. What a great musician. What a human being! Tommy you will be missed. You music was like nectar to many an ear!!

i first heard Tommy in the mid 70s when I was an undergrad at KU, and was very impressed. Over time, after moving back to Lawrence in 1984, I got to know Tommy, both in the jazz setting and on the tennis courts. I have never known a kinder, more considerate or more joyful human being. or more humble, despite his great talents and acoomplishments. A few months ago, I reconnected with karen and got to know Tommy Junior, who I remembered as a youngster playing tennis with Tommy. I feel blesed...

Tommy and I played several gigs together in 2006, and 2007 He was a great musician and a fabulous guy. I'm very saddened by his passing. My sympathies to his family who he spoke of often.

Tommy's contribution to the world of jazz was great,His generosity to The Mutual Musicians Foundation is appreciated.Thank You!Jayne Mc Shann

There really are no adequate words to describe Tommy Johnson. Tommy was a kind, gentle, humble, and loving soul. His memory is seared on many hearts, and he will be deeply missed by those whose lives he touched.