Erik Ashby Johansen

Erik Ashby Johansen, age 53, of West Memphis, Arkansas, and formerly of Jonesboro, left this life on Thursday, May 15, 2025. Erik was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas, to Joseph Ashby Johansen and Anne Turner Johansen. He graduated from Jonesboro High School in the Class of 1990, and attended Arkansas State University, where he achieved a degree in music. Erik was full of life and light and the obvious joy of the Lord. He never met a stranger and was a pleasure to be around as he marveled in life. With that long red hair, big smile, and always on the go, he had more than enough energy and joy to spread around. Some of his happiest years were undoubtedly his teenage and young adult years when he pursued his early passion of music and being a drummer. He played with the bands MissBHaven and Resin 8, among others. Someone once said to us that he was the best drummer west of the Mississippi. While that is a tall statement for sure, that desire did lead him to move to West Memphis to be near the Memphis music scene, playing gigs on Beale Street and following his dream. Erik was a Christian that loved the Lord and we spoke recently about his faith and love for Jesus, and now: there is wholeness in heaven. Erik is survived by his brother: Mark Johansen of Jonesboro; two nephews; Jason Johansen of Jonesboro, and Ryan Johansen of Borger, Texas; as well as a host of extended relatives, and friends. He is predeceased by his parents: Joseph and Anne Johansen. While no memorial service is planned at this time, we welcome your personal message, photo or happy story of Erik.