Joseph Leland Johnson

Joseph Leland Johnson passed away surrounded by his family on December 20th. He was born July 24, 1940, to Robert and Helen Cato Johnson. A graduate of Bearden High School and the University of Tennessee, Joe joined the family business of Highland Products Company and later his brother at A&W Supply. He was a "people person" with a generous heart. He served on many boards and foundations, including Carson Newman, the Knoxville Nativity Pageant, Pellissippi State, and Trinity. Joe enjoyed his involvement with Rotary Club of Knoxville for over 40 years. A long-time member of First Baptist Knoxville and Central Baptist Bearden, Joe cherished his Wednesday and Saturday men's Bible studies.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Nancy Johnson Bailey. He is survived by his patient wife of 60 years, Judith Lowe Johnson, brother, Bob C. Johnson, three sons, Robert L. Johnson (Angie), David L. Johnson (Susan) of Nashville, and Jonathan P. Johnson (Betsy). He loved his grandchildren Lizzie, Nathan (Grace), Isabel, Grace, Hank and Baxter.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Central Baptist Church of Bearden at 1:00 P.M., Saturday, January 3rd with a reception immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Western Heights Baptist Center or Knox County Association of Baptists. Online condolences may be made at www.rosefuneraltn.com