Olen Earl Johnson

1934 - 2025

Olen Earl Johnson

December 8, 1934 - December 22, 2025

Olen E. Johnson peacefully transitioned to Heaven on December 22, 2025, in High Point, N.C. Born in McKeesport, PA, he was the youngest son of seven children. A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, Olen served his country for 21 years.

Olen was married to his beloved wife, Thelma Lee (Hogan) Johnson, for 68 years. Together they raised six children and built a life centered on faith, family, and service: Kenneth W. Johnson (deceased), Zackery K. Johnson, Tyrone M. James (Gwynne), Jarmayne R. Brewer, Olenda E. Johnson, and Ann Y. Johnson.

He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose love extended far beyond his family to countless airmen, youth, church members, and neighbors.

A man of deep faith and tireless service, Olen was one of the founders of Unity Missionary Baptist Church, a longtime Meals on Wheels volunteer, and organizer of free Thanksgiving dinners serving seniors and shut-ins. He was honored as Cheyenne, Wyoming's Citizen of the Year.

Olen was affiliated with Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Clairton, PA; Unity Missionary Baptist Church in Cheyenne, WY and Beyond the Walls Ministries in Jamestown, NC. At the time of his passing, he was a faithful member and patriarch of East White Oak Missionary Baptist Church in Greensboro, NC.

A fierce advocate for civil rights, Olen's leadership and activism created lasting change locally and beyond. He was Past Master of Western Star Lodge #6 and Past Patron of Wyoming Chapter #6, Order of the Eastern Star.

A celebration of life will be held January 3, 2025, at East White Oak Missionary Baptist Church, Greensboro, NC, with visitation at 11 a.m. and service at 12 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Meals on Wheels or the Disabled Veterans Association in his memory.