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Richard Johnson Obituary
He was born on September 18, 1934, in Holly Springs, Mississippi to Clayton and Pearl Johnson. He was known for his courage and perseverance. Richard contracted polio at age 10, rending his legs dysfunctional. However, he learned to walk using crutches early in life. His determination helped make him successful in his life and career.
Richard was a valued educator, starting as a special education teacher at Westwood High School in 1961. He obtained his Ed.S Degree from the University of Tennessee. He was promoted to Supervisor, and then Director of Special Education for Shelby County Schools. During this time, he earned many education awards, both locally and nationally. After retiring from the Shelby County Schools, he served as Principal of The Wesley School in Collierville TN and Guidance Counselor at Rossville Christian Academy in Rossville, TN.
Richard grew up in church and used this measure of faith to guide him. He was also a member of Grace Evangelical Church.
He leaves his son, Warren (Patty) Johnson, stepdaughter Melissa Chambers, a sister Sandy Brown, his granddaughter, Amy Bynum, two great grandchildren, Charlee and Birklee Bynum, and his cat named Socks.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Emily Johnson, two sisters. Elizabeth Williams and Inez Bell and a brother Clayton Johnson.
Funeral services will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home in the Fireside Chapel on Wednesday, December 7 at 11:00 am. Visitation will be held and hour prior to the service starting at 10:00am
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Memories and Condolences
for Richard Johnson
Sponsored by Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery.
5 Entries
Jane Dalton
December 6, 2022
I remember Richard well as I was getting my special Ed certification and then working in post grad classes. He was such I likable instructor with his sly wit and genuine spirit. I´ve thought about him numerous times over the last 45 years since he made a lasting impression
James B. Mitchell, Jr. , Superintendent (Ret.) Shelby County Schools
December 6, 2022
Richard L. Johnson made a positive difference in the lives of thousands of children. Thank you, Richard! "A teacher touches eternity. He never knows where his influence stops." H.B. Adams
Debbie Binswanger
December 6, 2022
Dr. Johnson hired me years ago to work in special Ed for the Shelby county schools. He was a kind, steady leader to his newbies. I have always appreciated and admired him. Many children and families benefited from his life.
Hannah Hall
December 5, 2022
Mr. Johnson loved my mother, Joy Sprague. I believe they are laughing it up together now. My condolences go out to the family and friends.
- Hannah Hall
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Staff of Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery
December 5, 2022
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Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery5668 Poplar Avenue P.O. Box 17144, Memphis, TN 38119-0885
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