Neal Whitney Johnson

NEWARK - Neal Whitney Johnson, age 85, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025, in Phelps, New York, with his loving family by his side after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was a beloved husband, father, papa, and friend to all who knew him.

Neal was born on January 30, 1940, in Clyde, New York, to Stanley and Eleanor Johnson. He grew up in Clyde, where he developed the work ethic, faith, and warmth that would define his life.

He attended the University of Southern California for one year, Hobart College for two years, and went on to earn his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Buffalo.

Neal faithfully served the Newark community as a dentist for over 40 years as the owner of The Johnson Health Group. Affectionately known as "Doctor Smiley," he greeted everyone with kindness, genuine care, and the warmest smile. A hard worker with a remarkable breadth of skills and trades, Neal found joy in staying active-working on house projects, gardening, hunting and being outdoors whenever he could.

A devout servant of Christ, Neal lived his faith boldly and joyfully. As an active member of the Gideons, he made spreading the gospel his life's mission, distributing testaments locally in jails, county fairs, and parades, and globally in Zimbabwe and Thailand. One of his greatest earthly contributions was helping to build the Calvary Church and Family Life Center on Peirson Avenue in Newark.

Neal had a deep love for music and worship. He sang, played the piano and trombone, and shared his gifts freely. He was "famous" for giving the biggest, most heartfelt hugs, and when asked how he was doing, his steady reply was always, "I am blessed."

Neal was married to his high school sweetheart, Roxanne, for 66 years - a testament to enduring love.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Roxanne Johnson; his children, Clark (Sharon) Johnson, Kirk (Rose) Johnson, Kendra Johnson and his son-in-law Joe Spacher; his grandchildren, Sierra (Josh) Hogan, William Johnson, Carly (Jackson) Cohan, Mariah (Dale) Mueller, Ceara Ross, Christopher Ross; and his great-grandchildren, Sophia, Adrian, Bodhi, Olive, Mazzy, and Raelynn.

He was predeceased by one son Mark Johnson in 2019.

Above all, Neal will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his infectious smile, his generous heart, and the way he made everyone feel seen and unconditionally loved.

A service and celebration of life will be held at the Calvary Church in Newark, New York on Saturday, Jan 31 at 10:30 a.m.