Kenneth M. "Pookie" "Pookie" Johnson, Sr. Sr.

Kenneth "Pookie" Johnson, Sr. began is journey on November 10, 1957, born in Detroit, Michigan to Lula Pearl and Clifford Johnson Sr. From his earliest days, Kenneth's life was one marked by deep faith, abundance of love, quiet strength, and an unwavering dedication to his family. He began his new journey to be with the Lord, peacefully surrounded by loved ones on late Tuesday evening on July 29, 2025, in comfort of his home.

Kenneth was one of nine siblings. He was preceded in death by his four brothers – Leon Graham, Jesse Graham, Clifford Johnson, Jr., and Kerry Johnson – three sisters – Doris Gail Johnson, Belinda Johnson, and Amie Sharmaine Moore. His surviving sister, Retona Sanders (Derrick) of Michigan, remains to cherish his memory. He was also preceded in death by his beloved son-in-law, Charles "Cjay" Childs and grandson, Peanut Johnson.

Kenneth accepted Christ at an early age, beginning his spiritual walk at Obedient Missionary Baptist Church in Michigan. Later, after relocating to Tennessee, he united with Trueway Church under the leadership of Pastor Henry Davenport III and Elder Jeffrey Harding, where his faith continued to guide his life.

He was a proud graduate of the Detroit Job Core Center and School in Michigan. Kenneth earned his General Education Diploma in 1977. He went on to build a long, hardworking career with General Motors. Starting with UAW Local 22 in Michigan from 1977 to 1993, he later transferred to Spring Hill, Tennessee, working at Saturn/General Motors UAW Local 1853 until he retired in 2014. In total he gave 37 years of dedicated service before he retired at the age of 55 – a true example of integrity and commitment.

Kenneth's first daughter, Tarji J. Penn, was born in 1976. In 1981, he married the love of his life, Yvonne Johnson. In 1993, they moved their growing family to Tennessee to continue his career. From this union came four more children: Kenneth "Pudge" Johnson Jr. (Shereka) of Illinois, Kennetha "Wednesday" Gault (William III), Vancherrika "Cooda" Childs of Tennessee, and Clarissa "Cetta" Johnson of Indiana.

Kenneth, lovingly known as "Pookie," had a magnetic personality and a heart that welcomed everyone. He found joy in simple pleasures – swimming with his family, especially his nieces and nephews, watching sports, and playing cards anywhere a game was happening. Whether on the job or at home, he was always the one to bring laughter, light, and a competitive spirit.

He leaves to cherish his memory and legacy, his devoted wife Yvonne; children Tarji, Kenneth Jr., Kennetha, Vancherrika and Clarissa; and 18 grandchildren: Xavier, Demonta, Reuben, Iyana (Brian), Zy'Ann, Damarius, Autumn, Kenneth III "Kenny", M'Kayla, Teairra, Navon, Lailah, Demaryae, Karley, Caleigh, Kyrie, Caden and Lily. He also leaves behind three great-grandsons: Zahir, Elias, and Denim.

In addition to his immediate family, Kenneth is remembered and loved by an immaculate host of extended family and lifelong friends, all of whom he loved clearly, deeply and without condition.

Though his earthly journey has come to an end, the legacy of Kenneth "Pookie" Johnson Sr. lives on – in the lessons he taught, the love he gave, and the countless memories carried by all who had the honor of knowing him.