William L Johnson

William L. 'Bill' Johnson Jr, a devoted family man and distinguished World War II hero, peacefully passed away in Carlsbad, California, at the age of 99 on January 13, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on August 20, 1924, in North Hollywood, California, Bill was the beloved son of William and Inez Johnson. Graduating from North Hollywood High School in 1942, it was during these school years that he met the love of his life, Narisse Moir, whom he would later marry. Bill and Narisse celebrated 77 years of marriage in 2023, sharing a lifetime of cherished memories.

After high school, Bill enlisted in the US Navy, serving as a Sonarman Second Class on the USS England Destroyer Escort during World War II. The USS England achieved a historic accomplishment in the South Pacific, sinking six enemy submarines in just 12 days. This is a record that stands to this day. Bill survived a harrowing kamikaze attack, when an enemy aircraft carrying a 500lb bomb struck the nerve center of the ship, killing 37 of the crew. The unparalleled anti-submarine warfare performance earned the USS England and its crew a prestigious Presidential Unit Citation. Bill was decorated with several medals, including the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, Philippine Liberation Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and a Good Conduct Medal.

Returning to civilian life, Bill joined the Los Angeles Police Department, where he served at Parker Center as Detective Sergeant in the Specialized Major Crime Bureau for 31 years. Bill and Narisse raised their three children in Burbank, California, building a life filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures.

Bill had a passion for poker, remaining competitive even in his late 90s. His fondness for cars led him to own and modify several, including a 1939 Ford 5-window coupe, a 1955 Ford T-Bird, and a 1967 Porsche 911.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Narisse Johnson, their children Janelle Butler (Jeff), Nancee Baldino (Frank), William 'Chip' Johnson III (Lisa), six grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren. He will be remembered not only for his heroic contributions to the nation but also for his wit, generosity, and love that touched all privileged to know him. A true member of the Greatest Generation, he will be deeply missed.