Johnny Isom

When the time comes to bid this life farewell, we should find comfort in knowing that a loving God will be there with us to guide us to our new home.

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Johnny Isom, age 74 of Columbia, passed away December 26, 2025, at Henrico Doctor’s Hospital in Richmond, VA. Johnny was born October 31, 1951, in Saginaw, Michigan, to Louvenia Isom. The oldest of his four siblings (Diane, Linzell, Fitzgerald, Glen), Johnny was reared by his mother with a heartfelt influence from his Uncle Earl Isom (affectionately known as “Bud” or “Buttercup”).

After traveling the world with the Navy (“from the Gulf of Mexico to the Coast of Spain!”), Johnny served as a Navy recruiter until his retirement in 2001 after 30 years of service.

A man of many talents and interests, Johnny completed his Bachelor’s degree at Virginia State University in 2001. In addition to picking pickles as a young boy in Saginaw, Johnny worked as a water treatment specialist, a substitute schoolteacher, and a career coach. As a young sailor docked in Norfolk, he met the love of his life Donna (“Baby Boo”) Ragland at Norfolk State University; he married his sweetheart in Saginaw, Michigan.

They eventually settled in Louisa County where they lovingly reared three children - Shajuana, Ijuanzee, and Dayna. His hobbies included a love of music, grilling, playing cards, and an appreciation for fine cognacs (memorably enjoying a “Yac Attack”). Celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in 2024 was one of his most cherished memories. Johnny (“Iceman”) was an enthusiastic supporter of all Detroit sports teams (Lions, Tigers, and Pistons).

Of all of his passions and joys, his most cherished role was that of being the best “Papa” ever. He is survived by his wife Donna; one son Ijuanzee (Tiffany), three daughters Shajuana (Baron), Dayna (Ryan), Tanya, and his bonus daughter Sonya (Calvin); six grandchildren, Nicholas, Hailey, Elijah, Marz, Ozzie, Naijah, and one great-grandchild Nasir; two brothers Fitzgerald and Glen (Jenelyn), and one sister Diane (Joe); along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service for Johnny will be held Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 1:00pm at County Line Baptist Church, 4070 County Line Road, Kents Store, VA, 23084. Flowers and cards can be sent to D.D. Watson Mortician, Inc. at 117 West Street, Louisa, VA 23093.

To the Isom family, we at D. D. Watson offer our most sincere sympathy and condolences. Our prayer continues to be that your abiding faith in God will lend to you a measure of comfort that will strengthen and sustain you during your time of sorrow.

It is during such times as these that we draw upon our faith, stand upon our scriptures, and rely upon our God. There is no question that in this and through this, God will keep you, comfort you, and sustain you. You and your family are forever in our prayers.