Cory Allan Johnson

The Man, His Life, His Legacy Cory Allan Johnson peacefully entered the arms of his Heavenly Father on Thursday, September 11, 2025. Born on September 18, 1974, in Newark, New Jersey, Cory was the beloved son of Pamela (Montague) Johnson and the late William Allan Johnson. He was a faithful servant to both God and country, leading with honor, integrity, and a commitment to excellence that touched every life he encountered. Cory attended elementary school in Newark before moving with his family to Chesapeake, Virginia, when his father received orders to Naval Station Norfolk. He continued his education in Chesapeake Schools and graduated from Indian River High School in 1992. Following graduation, Cory answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. During his distinguished career, he rose to the rank of First Class Petty Officer and earned both his Surface and Aviation Enlisted Warfare qualifications. In February 2006, Cory was commissioned through Officer Candidate School and went on to serve with distinction as a Lieutenant, marking a proud milestone in his naval service. His career was decorated with numerous honors, including three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, six Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and many other recognitions and awards. Committed to education, Cory earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology in 2005 and later a Master of Business Administration in Human Resources in 2015, both from Saint Leo University. On July 10, 2010, Cory married the love of his life, Tiffany (Black) Johnson. The two first met in 2008 at the Virginia Living Museum during an event hosted by Hampton Roads Magazine, where Cory was featured as one of its "25 Sensational Singles of Hampton Roads". From that day forward, the two were inseparable. Their marriage was blessed with a son, William, who was invariably the apple of Cory's eye. Cory's greatest joy was found in his role as a devoted husband and proud father, cherishing the love of his family and the simple moments they shared. Cory was a true Renaissance man. In high school, he excelled in basketball and tennis and served as the ROTC Drill Team Leader. He carried that same drive and passion into adulthood, whether perfecting a recipe in the kitchen, leading with honor in the Navy, or crafting a backyard jungle gym for William. He was also a man of style who loved to dress sharply, a music enthusiast, a skilled handyman, and a gentleman through and through. After a distinguished career in the United States Navy, LT Cory Johnson retired in 2017. He transitioned into the private sector, working as a contractor for FTI and KMS Solutions. He later began his government service with Naval Support Activity (NSA) Hampton Roads, initially serving as their Security Manager. Following a promotion, he advanced to the role of Regional Security Manager for Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA), where he faithfully served even through his illness. Cory had many talents and hobbies, but golf held an unrivaled place in his heart. He was most recently celebrated as the 2023 Tidewater Amateur Tour Local Finals Champion. He took immense pride in playing on courses across the country, having played in 13 states and 2 countries. On Sunday mornings, Cory found peace and happiness at the "church of fairways and greens" as he fondly called it. This is where he felt most at home. Cory was preceded in death by his father, William Allan Johnson. His legacy of love and inspiration will live on through his cherished wife, Tiffany Johnson; son, William Johnson; devoted mother, Pamela Johnson; mother-in-law, Marcia Black; father-in-law, Forrest Lee Black; and a host of loving relatives, friends, shipmates, and colleagues who will continue to honor his memory. Fair winds and following seas, Cory.