Brian Philip Johnson, M.D.

Jackson

Brian Philip Johnson, M.D., 61, died peacefully surrounded by his family Sunday, May 28, 2017 at Baptist Hospital after a five year battle with cancer. A Requiem Eucharist will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 31, 2017 at St. James' Episcopal Church. Visitation will begin at 9: 30 a.m. Wednesday in Fowler Hall at St. James' Episcopal Church.

Dr. Brian Johnson was born in Saratoga Springs, New York. After receiving a Bachelor of Science Degree from the College of William and Mary in Virginia, Dr. Johnson entered medical school at the Medical College of Virginia and received the Doctor of Medicine degree in 1982.

Dr. Johnson's professional training in Orthopedic surgery includes a one-year general surgery internship at Louisiana State University. He completed his Orthopedic surgery residency in 1989 at the Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Johnson completed a fellowship (extra specialty training) in joint replacement surgery at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. Dr. Johnson is Board Certified in the specialty of Orthopedic surgery with a special interest in hip and knee replacement surgery.

Since January 2012, Dr. Johnson has been serving as Executive Director of Orthopedic Services at Baptist Hospital in Jackson, MS. Under his supervision, the program has thrived and excelled. Dr Johnson is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), American Medical Association (AMA), American Association of Hip & Knee Surgeons (AAHKS), Mississippi State Medical Association, Southern Medical Association and the Southern Orthopedic Association

A veteran, Dr. Johnson served as a Lt. Colonel in the US Army serving as , MC Flight Surgeon in Seoul, Korea and Chief of Orthopedics for the 5th General Hospital in Germany.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Patricia and Alan Johnson

Survivors include his children, Philip Steele Johnson, Patrick Killis Johnson, Abigail (Abbie) Alan Johnson and their mother, Mary Fleming (Mimi) O'Neal Johnson. Dr. Johnson is also survived by his siblings, Stephen (Patti) Johnson and Stacey Johnson.

Memorials may be made to St. James' Episcopal Church, 3921 Oakridge Dr, Jackson, MS 39216, the Salvation Army, PO Box 31954, Jackson, MS 39286 or to UMMC Cancer Institute for Research, 2500 N. State St., Guyton 2, Suite G751-5, Jackson, MS 39216-4505.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Clarion Ledger on May 30, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Brian Johnson

Sponsored by Sebrell Funeral Home.

87 Entries

Marilyn J Curtis

May 24, 2021

It is 2021 now and I am still getting about good on my knee that was replaced ten years ago. Thanks is given to credit Dr. Johnson and his advice. for mevto work hard and do my therapy right after surgery. R.I.P. Blessings to his family, staff, and friends.

john orlando

May 24, 2020

Brian played Football,Hockey and lacrosse at Suffern HS. I was his coach and friend. He worked summers in the Lake George area and always found time to visit me and my family. We spent many happy days with Brian and his sister Stacey. They will always be remembered ans missed. John and Anita Orlando.

Ted Crawley

March 5, 2020

Dr. Brian did both hip replacements for me. Job well done. He was one who I was happy that he did my surgery. Was saddened when I learned about his passing.

Deborah BOnjouklian

May 24, 2019

There is so much to say about Brian - one of the most gifted, smart, and entertaining people Ive known. We (my husband David) and I had so many good times with Brian and Mimi when they lived in the Seattle area. We were sad to see them go to Germany. After their return, when Brian was doing a fellowship in California, we visited with our 3-year old, Philip was about 1-1/2. They treated us to court side Laker tickets (back when the Lakers we good), that Brian had worked some double shifts to obtain. So generous. Brian and Mimi will always have a special place in our memories.

February 17, 2018

Brian's father Al and I were raised like Brother & Sister. Al's mother Mary Elmer Johnson and my mother Trudy Elmer D'Onofrio were sisters. Aunt Mary stayed with us very often. Christmas & Thanksgiving dinners were always at our house on Mosley Dr, Syracuse, N Y.
Brian and his brother and sister used my baby Bassinett.
Al worked for the NY Telephone when he was transferred to NJ. I visited and stayed weekends often. I remember Brian's mother always scrubbing the kids sneakers with a brush after washing them. They had to have the cleanest sneakers in school.

When Brian & Mimi lived in Germany when he was in the service ... he was sent on a mission on Christmas Eve. Mimi was telling us how only Brian could have an Oriental Rug at his cot side. Ha, ha,

When Brian & Mimi we're on the move to Jackson they stopped to see us in Orlando on their way to visit his parents on the West coast of FL.
The last time I saw Brian was at his mother's funeral, I believe.
Brian was blessed with the most sensitive, loving, outgoing personality. One could not help but love him.
I am just finding out about Brian's passing now. We have moved twice and my 82 yr old husband is in the Tuskawilla Nursing & Rehab Center with advanced Parkinson's Disease and I at 80 am now alone in our apartment with Atrial-Fib, high BP and seeing the Coumadin Clinic for blood issues. I am hoping that the family could not reach us.

I called Brian's office when we made this last move. I did leave our phone # but was told that he was with a patient. I didn't hear back ... bit realize now that he was also struggling with Cancer.
My daughter said that God needed His best people in Heaven and that Our beloved Brian was called to Heaven to help.

I am going to try to reach out to Mimi if I can have someone assist me with a phone # .... that can be sent privately to me to my FB message [email protected].

Heaven is Blessed to have Brian and I believe he will be with us in spirit and will always be taking care of his loved ones through Jesus . God Bless.
Amen,
Cousin Donna

Tracy Ann Caveny ( Donna's daughter)Heathrow, FL

Donna Bartlett

February 17, 2018

Anthony & young Donna in Camden, NY

Donna Bartlett

February 17, 2018

Paul & cousin Donna D'Onofrio Bartlett, Heathrow,FL

Donna Bartlett

February 17, 2018

Denise Herrington

July 9, 2017

I just read the informative letter from MS Sports Medicine that was sent to his patients. I read it on July 8th. Got our mail late as we have moved. He just replaced both of my knees last June and Sept. of 2016. My heart is so saddened to hear of our great loss as he passed from this life. And I feel all the more privledged and blessed to have met him and had him perform my surgeries. Such a very fine doctor and person. I am indeed glad our paths crossed in this life, and look forward to seeing him again in the next life in eternity. He was so humorous and caring in his approach to me as his patient, and all the while he was not well himself. What an inspiration he is still to me as well as his other patients, I feel sure. Rest In Peace, Dr. Johnson. I will continue to pray for his entire family, as I know his loss is tremendous for all of them. But the good news is, we will see him again and he IS alive.

Quentella sullivan

July 3, 2017

I just learned of Dr. Johnson's passing today! I was truly saddened. He always made me feel like I was important and that my health was a concern to him. I will truly miss him, his kindness, and caring heart!!1

Linda Fleming

June 27, 2017

Dr. Johnson did hip replacement for my mom. She told me today that he had passed. She sounded very sad to hear that. She really cared a lot for Dr. Johnson. Although she is 93, I think she looked forward to going to see him. Dr. Johnson will be missed. My mom's last name is Johnson. He made her feel like family.

Elaine Griffin

June 15, 2017

I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Johnson. He was the most amazing orthopedic surgeon in Mississippi. He replaced both of my knees, the first one when I was 49 years old in 2006, when no other surgeon would do it. He could see the pain I had been enduring for years, so to say he was compassionate is an understatement. He always had positive energy and was always encouraging you to work hard during your physical therapy...."Motion is lotion" was his saying. He replaced my second knee in 2009 and my life has been pain free since.. He was definitely the only surgeon I recommended to all who asked. Heaven is shining a little brighter with that beautiful smile of his. Deepest condolences to his family.

Janice Cole

June 8, 2017

May dr Johnson Rest In Peace

john orlando

June 7, 2017

Brian was one of our favorite athletes. We will never forget hid potrayal of Little Abner. He played hockey and lacrosse for me and always took the time to visit me and my family in Lake George.

Brian had great accomplishments and will never be forgotten.

Rest In Peace our dear friend

Love

Anita and John Orlando and family

June 7, 2017

Brian was one of our favorite athletes. He played hockey and lacrosse for me at Suffern HS. Not only was ha good athlete he was a super nice person. me and my family always looked forward to his visits at Lake George.

His accomplishments are well documented and he will be missed.

RIP Love Anita and John and the entire Orlando Family.

Kathy Patrick

June 7, 2017

So sorry for your loss. He was a caring and compassionate person - very rare in medical field these days. He just recently replaced my 86 yr old mother-in-law's knee- the second one he had done for her. She trusted him and bragged on his skill and bed side manners. May the Lord bring you comfort and peace in the days ahead.

David Blackwell

June 7, 2017

Been out of town and just found out. Saw him in Feb. in office .
Did two hip replacements on me. Best doctor I have ever had So sad. Pray for family for there lose.

Deborah and david Bonjouklian

June 7, 2017

We are deeply saddened by this news. Our thoughts are with you and your beautiful children. Wish we could have stayed more in touch these past several years as we have missed both of you.

Zachary Kinneman

June 6, 2017

Our condolences to Brian's family, friends and colleagues. May he rest peacefully with the Lord.

June 6, 2017

He was one of the sweeties doctors I have ever met, I'm going to miss him, he always had a smile on his face

Gene Bender

June 5, 2017

So very sorry for your loss

Jennifer Sciscente

June 5, 2017

I am very sorry for your loss. He was a very nice man.

Marilyn

June 5, 2017

My deepest sympathy to his family. He will be forever remembered by the Class of '74. RIP.

Ceasar Mazza

June 5, 2017

You will always live in our hearts and prayers.

GENE MURPHY

June 5, 2017

So sad to hear the passing of Brian knew him for so many years Suffern ,NY
God Bless and prayers for the family. Gene Murphy AIRMONT NY

Janice Jones

June 2, 2017

I'm saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Johnson.. my mother was his patient.. I will lift his family up in my prayers. He was an excellent Physician, kind and gentle man.

Alice Haralson-Nworah

June 2, 2017

Dr. Johnson was my mother's doctor for over 25 years. He was so kind and had a passion for helping others. He always made my mother (River Haralson - lives in Jackson) smile no matter how bad she felt when she arrived. He was a wonderful doctor and a good person toward my mom. We will miss his gift of taking care of others.

Kim and Chris Hansen

June 1, 2017

Our hearts go out to the family... He was a fantastic surgeon and it was always nice seeing him... He was wonderful to us before, during and after the surgery's... Heaven has just been honored with a great spirit and angel...

Dot Stephenson

June 1, 2017

All of us who were fortunate to have been one of Dr. Johnson's patients were so very blessed. I praise the Lord every day for that special gift. He was an exceptional and caring man.

Betty

June 1, 2017

To live in the hearts of those we leave behind is not to die. He leaves behind a life well lived.

Rita Smith

June 1, 2017

So very sad to hear of Dr. Johnson's passing. He replaced my hip almost 2 years ago. I was actually looking forward to my checkup this month. Never have I met such a kind, compassionate doctor with the best bedside manner and always a hug at the end of each visit. He was the best! My prayers are with his family. Rest easy Dr. Johnson, you will be missed.

Diana Hurt

May 31, 2017

I am so heartbroken. Dr. Johnson was my husband's doctor. We are both grieving. He always had a smile, and his sweet spirit was so genuine. He was a one of a kind. At our house, we will continue to say, "Motion is lotion." Our sympathy to his staff , 6A at Baptist, MS Sports, and his family.

Vernon Knight

May 31, 2017

Best Doctor I ever had He Loved Ever body He Done Both Knees For me I first meet him in 1996 after an accident he brought me back to health he was a good friend I will miss him always . When I saw him in January 2017 I had no idea that would be the last time. My sincere condolences Vernon Knight.

Gary E. Walker

May 31, 2017

A thousand thank yous to the best orthopedic doctor in the world, for years of care, along with replacing both knees, from a devoted and grateful patient. Gary E. Walker

Ann Macvaugh

May 31, 2017

My heart is breaking over the loss of Dr. Johnson. He replaced both of my hips and was treating me for knee pain. I was scheduled to see him the end of June. He was such a gifted surgeon and healer. My deepest sympathies to his family. He will be greatly missed.

Judy and Jerry Parrott

May 31, 2017

Dr. Johnson replaced both of my husbands knees as well as mine. He was the best! He will be greatly missed. My condolences go out to his family. I will never forget his sweet, caring bedside manner , sweet smile,, the kiss on the cheek , and his famous phrase"motion is lotion". Rest In Peace and prayers for his family and staff..

Ann Macvaugh

May 31, 2017

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Bettye Ward Fletcher

May 31, 2017

Dr Brian was a skilled and capable surgeon; more importantly he was an awesome human being. He treated his patients with tremendous respect and care. I will miss the hug that concluded each office visit.

mildred hill

May 31, 2017

DR. Johnson, I will always remember you as not only a great doctor, but as caring person. I will always remember that kiss on my cheek and you telling me you were going to make it better. May 12,2015 you did my total knee replacement and were always there for the continuity of care since. Thank you, and I LOVE YOU.RIP until we meet again.

Sherree Allen

May 31, 2017

I heard of so many acts of kindness this man did behind the scenes. He performed a hip replacement on my right hip this past December and had just as great a bedside manner as Mimi said he had. I know he will be missed by all who knew him.

Felicia Turner

May 31, 2017

My condolences to the Johnson Family. Dr. Johnson was the best doctor that I have encountered in my life time. He was concerned about his patients well being and was such a genuine doctor. He was the first doctor that ever gave me a kiss on the cheek. That along speaks for him and the type doctor he was. He loved his patients and his patients loved him. I will deeply miss you. RIP

Nancy Isonhood

May 31, 2017

Matthew 5:11. He made the lame to walk. Before my surgery I asked him if he was a Christian. He said he was indeed. I felt better knowing God had Dr. Johnson's hands in his. We have lost the best.

Jeanne Palmer

May 31, 2017

Dr. Johnson repaired my Aunt's hip. He replaced my Mother's knee and she is 89 and still proud of her knee, stated that kept her moving and is responsible for the joy she experienced in her senior years. The quality of life he restored is immeasurable . Loved his spirit , smile and trusted him with most precious people. Rest In Peace and prayers for your family and staff.

May 31, 2017

My sisters and I appreciated so much the good care Dr. Johnson gave our Mother through knee and hip surgery. He was a very special physician and it was obvious that he sincerely cared for all his patients as people, not just as another surgery.
Prayers for his family.

Marilyn Crum

May 31, 2017

So sorry to hear about Dr. Johnson!!!

Peggy Hart

May 31, 2017

I can't think of Dr. Johnson, and not smile. He was a delightful man to be around and dear friend of mine and my late husband. He and Hal worked together, laughed together and most of all, prayed together. May God bless and strengthen the Johnson family.

God bless

Nilda Escobar L

May 30, 2017

Nilda Escobar L

May 30, 2017

Sheila Clinkscales

May 30, 2017

Sure hate to read about the death of dr Johnson he did knee replacement on me may 10 never knew may 11 would be the last time I would see him prayers to his fiamily

Donna Martin

May 30, 2017

As a physical therapist that has worked with Dr. Johnson's patients for many years, I know how special this man was to his patients. He was a staunch advocate of physical therapy, but more than that, he was a precise and accurate surgeon. His total knees were the best, bar none. It was an absolute honor to work with his patients and I am at a loss for words to describe the void I feel. I will smile and think of him every time I hear one of his favorite phrases - "motion is lotion" and "if you're not crying, you're not trying". RIP Dr. Johnson - you left a legacy that will not soon be forgotten.

Jeremy Cuba Escobar

May 30, 2017

Dear Family of Dr Brian Johnson. I want to show my gratitud of him for change the caulity of life of my dear mom of the last Augost 2016 He made a total remplace him surgery to the totally for free. We send you our love and gratitude for the lovely person he was. With love Jeremy Cuba Escobar from Cusco Peru.

May 30, 2017

I was so very sorry to hear about Dr. Johnson's passing. He did my knee surgery and we were going to set up a date for my other knee when I saw him again in a month. He was such a special man. Always gave me a kiss on the cheek and called me sweetheart. I can not imagine not seeing him again. He was a wonderful man and surgeon. Prayers for his family in the days to come.

Leonie Erickson

May 30, 2017

He was so kind to all his patients. My mother was one of them. We will all miss him. Praying for all his family.

Bonnie Wiggers

May 30, 2017

Praying for all of his family as he leaves such an awesome legacy. He was my mothers doctor and she will always remember how he treated her as his very own patient. Blessing and peace to all the family. Rest in Peace...

Judy HardinCarver

May 30, 2017

Praying for o comfort for all of his family, he will really be missed. He was my doctor and friend for 15 years.

Avinash Gulanikar

May 30, 2017

Very sad news. Dr Johnson was a pillar of courage as he continued to work and help countless patients during his battle with cancer. Even with a grueling treatment regimen and side effects, he rarely missed work. We have lost a great colleague. May his soul RIP

May 30, 2017

Praying for the family. He was an excellent Dr he performed both knee surgeries on my mother. Will be truly missed

Mary Connor

May 30, 2017

Praying Gods peace and blessings to the family.

Jo White Allen

May 30, 2017

I worked with Dr. Johnson at Mississippi sports medicine and orthopedic center back in 1997. It was always very nice to me and always had a nice word. He will be missed.

May 30, 2017

The people of MS lost a good friend and great doctor with the passing of Dr. Brian Johnson. Dr. Johnson touched so many lives with healing as he was not only a great orthopedic surgeon with exceptional skills, he also treated his patients as a friend. He was an advocate of tough love physical therapy so that his patients would have a much improved quality of life. His last words to me a month ago after he replaced my second knee were ,If you ain't crying, you ain't trying as he encouraged my PT efforts. He also had a tender side which I experienced these last five years as he battled cancer when we prayed together. His healing legacy will live on in the hearts, minds, hips and knees of thousands of his patients, friends and colleagues. You will be missed greatly Dr. Johnson!

Tom Young
Madison, MS

Gerald Smith

May 30, 2017

Dr. Johnson was a caring and dedicated doctor that will be missed. My condolences to his family and friends.

Diana Robertson

May 30, 2017

The passing of Dr. Johnson is heart breaking. He was awesome! Dr. Johnson had the best bedside manner, the sweetest smile and always a hug and a keep up the good work before leaving. He will be forever missed.

Suzanne Sanford

May 30, 2017

Sincerest condolences to Dr Johnson's family. He was my surgeon 1 1/2 yrs ago and truly the most amazing, talented surgeon (hip replacement that was a real challenge to him). He touched so many lives with his caring soul. He will be greatly missed!!

May 30, 2017

I only saw Dr. Johnson a few times and in 2011 he replaced one of my hips. He was one of the most kind doctors I've ever seen. My condolences to his family and friends. He is at rest - he will most certainly be missed.
Kathleen Peters - Pearl, MS

Pam Simmons

May 30, 2017

I was deeply saddened to hear the loss of Dr. Johnson. He was my hip and knee doctor for many years and gave me back quality of life. He was always smiling and always gave you a hug. My next appointment was to be in March of 2018. I will miss him greatly. My prayers go out to his family. I know he is running on the streets of gold now. Will one day meet him on those streets of gold and tell him how much he was missed and of all the people he helped here. He was truly a blessing.

Barb Davis

May 30, 2017

My knee doc - I showed him a pic of my new puppy (AS) & he showed me his pic of his Australian Shepherds ... big grin!

Joanne Carter

May 30, 2017

I'm heartbroken about the passing of Dr Johnson, he was my knee doctor and took care of me ,not only my doctor he was a friend I loved him dearly he will forever be missed.

May 30, 2017

My condolences! May God give your family strength and comfort during this difficult time. I hope you all find hope in God's promise at Hosea 13:14.

Wanda Sullivan

May 30, 2017

May you receive many jewels in your crown for all the wonderful things you did for others while you were here. May the Great Physician keep you forever at his side.

May 30, 2017

To have known Dr. Johnson was to love him, always had a smile on his face, and was very serious and outspoken man about his patients, you will be truly missed at Baptist on 6D, and I know that your patients are going to miss all of your kisses on the forehead. It was a great pleasure to have worked with you. we love and are going to miss you..... from your A team 6D orthopedics
may God continue to give and your family peace and comfort....

Nancy Buckels

May 30, 2017

I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of Dr Johnson. He was such a kind man and a wonderful physician. Ended every visit with a kiss on the cheek. He will certainly be missed!

Mary Turner

May 30, 2017

His smile remains in my memory - for every time we met.
You treated my like family - for that I'll never forget.
You brought peace to my body - and eased my weary pain.
I light this candle for you - until we meet again.

Al Underwood

May 30, 2017

Me and my new knee mourn for thee...

I know you'd love the poetry...

lives you've touched live on you see

including the joint you put in me

thanks Brian!

May 30, 2017

May God be with the family of Dr Johnson. I will forever be grateful for the new quality of life Dr Johnson provided for me with his skills and knowledge. He blessed the lives of so many. My heart is heavy. He expressed to me in March that he WAS BLESSED!

Heddy-Dale Matthias, MD

May 30, 2017

When he shall die,

Take him and cut him out in little stars,

And he will make the face of heaven so fine

That all the world will be in love with night

And pay no worship to the garish sun.

William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

Mary O'Gwynn

May 30, 2017

I am one of Dr. Johnson's patients. I cannot fully express how sad I am at his passing. He was a great surgeon (knees for me) but his ebullient spirit made him a great counselor for a patient. It would be difficult to be a complainer around him. He was also an encourager. To me, that is a great part of being a great doctor. I had a 6 year follow up with him in November. For me, it would have been a routine visit. But I looked forward to seeing him again. That is not how most patients feel about seeing their doctor. I will miss him - not as much as his children, but I will miss seeing "that smile". May God bless those that he leaves behind. God is already blessing him.

alex stewart

May 29, 2017

God looked around his garden
And found an empty place.
He then looked down upon the earth,
And saw your tired face.

He put His arms around you
And lifted you to rest.
God's garden must be beautiful,
He always takes the best.

He knew that you were suffering,
He knew that you were in pain.
He knew that you would never
Get well on earth again.

He saw the road was getting rough
And the hills were hard to climb.
So He closed your weary eyelids
And whispered Peace be thine.

It broke our hearts to lose you
But you did not go alone
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.

Alex Stewart, former Baptist employee