Henry Johnson

Henry Wallace Johnson peacefully departed this life on December 23, 2025.

He was born in Greenville, Texas, on October 13, 1944, to Wallace Jefferson and Grace Jones. He graduated from George Washington Carver High School in 1963 and went on to attend Jarvis Christian College on a football scholarship. In 1968, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Education, majoring in History and Physical Education - an achievement that reflected his lifelong belief in the power of learning.

In June 1966, Henry met the love of his life, Georgia Leggett. They were united in marriage on June 1, 1968, and to this union one son was born, Elston Henry Johnson. Their partnership of 57 years was marked by devotion, mutual respect, and steadfast love.

Henry was drafted into the United States Army in April 1968. He completed Basic Training at Ft. Polk, Louisiana; Advanced Infantry Training and Noncommissioned Officer Training at Ft. Benning, Georgia; and additional training at Ft. Ord, California. He deployed to Vietnam in May 1969 as a Staff Sergeant (E6) and Infantry Regiment Squad Leader with the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) - the famed "First Team." A selfless and dedicated leader, Henry was proud that he never lost a soldier from his squad to enemy fire.

For his courage and leadership, Henry received the Medal of Honor, two Bronze Stars - one for Valor - and other commendations recognizing his heroic service. He completed his tour in May 1970 and was honorably discharged from the United States Army in May 1974.

After returning home, Henry continued a distinguished career in public service. First serving as the first black institutional parole officer for the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole. The rest of his career included executive roles with the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, the Texas Department of Insurance, and the Texas General Services Commission. His colleagues admired his reliability, integrity, and unwavering commitment to doing what was right.

Education remained a cornerstone of Henry's life. He earned two master's degrees - one in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State in 1974 and one in Public Administration from Texas State University (Southwest Texas State University) 1984 - a remarkable accomplishment for his generation and a testament to his discipline and determination.

Henry was a man of many interests. A passionate sports enthusiast, he enjoyed football, tennis, paddle tennis, softball, and volleyball. He was also an avid reader, especially of historical biographies and mysteries.

Service to others was woven throughout Henry's life. He served as Senior Class President at Jarvis Christian College; Chairman of the Board for Safe Place for Battered Women; Coach for the Delwood Little League Football Association; and Treasurer of Wesley United Methodist Church. He also volunteered with the Travis County Appraisal Review Board, first as a member and then elected to be the first Black Chair of the Travis County Appraisal Review Board.

His achievements were recognized through numerous honors, including Outstanding Young Men of America, induction into the Pioneer Hall of Fame at Jarvis Christian College, and Omega Man of the Year at the Epsilon Iota Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. He was a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and a Connecting Link of the Austin (TX) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated.

Henry leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Georgia Leggett Johnson; his son, Elston Johnson (Barbara); his godson, Phillip Roberts (Sonya); grandchildren Andrew, Isobella, Amelia, Lauren, and Katelyn; sisters Edna Williams, Stephanie Winston, and Stacy Jones; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wallace Jefferson and Grace Jones; his brothers Sammie, Dwight, Edward, Shelton, and Fred; and his sister Margie.

Henry's life was a testimony of courage, service, faith, and love. His memory will forever be cherished, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.

"Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome." - Booker T. Washington