Paris Johnson

Paris Johnson, 29, of Chicago's West Loop neighborhood, passed away unexpectedly on November 28, 2023. He would have celebrated his 30th birthday on December 20, 2023.

Born into a military family in Sacramento, California, he moved often. As an adult, he resided in several cities within Arizona before moving to Chicago, IL. As a youth, he also lived in San Diego, CA, Tualatin, OR, and Honolulu, HI.

Paris' passion for ocean life started at a young age when he volunteered at Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, CA. He pursued his passion by receiving scuba diving training and achieving a certificate for it through the Maricopa Community College in Arizona. This further launched his Marine Biology education at the University of Hilo, Hawaii. He loved to learn new things. He was musically/vocally talented and a skilled cook and baker. As an avid reader, he also enjoyed a good debate and he came well-prepared.

Paris traveled the world as a flight attendant for American Airlines for over five years. He loved diving in the waters of Mexico and St. Lucia. His last trip to Bermuda this year in November, was filled with fun memories shared by his co-workers.

Paris was the beloved son of Carol Johnson of Surprise, AZ, and is also survived by his father; Lars Johnson of San Diego, CA. He will be greatly missed by his siblings; David (and sister-in-law Tara), of Oregon, Timothy, of Arizona, Dominic (and sister-in-law Candelaria), of Colorado and Robin, of California.

Paris was predeceased by maternal grandparents; Walter and Thelma Stenulson of Seaside, Oregon, and paternal grandparents; Frank and Frances Johnson Jr. of National City, CA. Before his Grandpa Walt's passing, Paris enjoyed being his fishing buddy and digging for clams. Paris and his Grandpa Johnson shared the love of reading comic books. Paris enjoyed helping and learning from his Grandma Johnson in the kitchen. Paris had a very special bond with his Aunt Marla Johnson, who called him her "Pear-Man".

Paris was known as "Tio" (versus uncle) to his nieces and nephews alike; Victoria, Tristan, Max, Amelie, Alexis, Sakura, William, Charlotte, Catherine, and the late Jordann. Paris enjoyed spoiling the little ones during Christmas and insisted on being in charge of stuffing the stockings with a lot of sweets!

He is deeply missed by his best friend Tyler Cronin and many other friends and co-workers who have shared so many stories about the positive impact Paris has made in each of their lives. Paris was the kind of friend you wanted in your corner. He could be brutally honest while exhibiting the most compassionate heart to those who shared with him.

A "Celebration of Life" honoring Paris will be held on January 18, 2024, in Surprise Arizona. Any individuals wishing to attend are asked to send an email with their contact information to Paris' mother; Carol Johnson, at CelebrateParis2024@gmail.com The family has requested that instead of sending flowers, please donate to one of Paris' favorite charities. Please email for more information.