Terry Phillip Johnson

Alderman Terry P. Johnson, age 68, passed away on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Born on December 15, 1955, to parents Elzena Kitchens Johnson and Daniel Johnson of Terry, Mississippi. He earned his bachelor's degree in music/organ performance from the Winters School of Music at William Carey University in 1977 and a master's degree with an emphasis in Remedial Reading. He further pursued his education by obtaining an additional master's degree in Organ Performance from Mississippi College under the mentorship of Dr. William Trotter.
Alderman Johnson dedicated his professional life to education and music. He worked as a schoolteacher and librarian across various school districts and most recently served as a church organist for the All Saints Episcopal Church in Jackson, MS, as well as other congregations in the area. He also served as the Dean of the Jackson Organ Guild.
His passion for activism and equality led him to serve on the Hinds County Democratic Executive Committee for 32 years, beginning in 1992. He played a pivotal role in organizing the Terry Municipal Democratic Executive Committee and was elected to the Board of Aldermen in Terry in 2017, a position he held until his passing. Alderman Johnson served six terms on the State Executive Committee for the Mississippi Democratic Party, holding roles such as the State Elections Committee Chair and the Senior Democrats Committee Chair. Most recently, he was honored to serve as a Democratic Elector for the state of Mississippi to the DNC.
Alderman Johnson was a stalwart defender of democracy, volunteering in numerous elections in Hinds County and beyond, and acting as campaign treasurer for several political candidates. His dedication extended to nurturing new community leaders, sharing his vast knowledge on political topics, and engaging in content writing and promotion on social media platforms. He served on the boards of the Brain Injury Association of Mississippi and the Jackson-Hinds Library System and contributed a weekly column to the Hinds County Gazette.
He is survived by his sister, Carolyn J. Clements, nephews, J. Scott Clements, Steve Clements, Gary Johnson, nieces, Kathy Demaris, Dr. Lisa Johnson, and Robin Hicks, and a host of family and friends. Special recognition is given to his faithful caregiver, Rosie Lee Miller. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elzena and Daniel Johnson, and his brother, Glen Johnson.
Visitation will be held at Galloway United Methodist Church in Jackson, Mississippi, on June 18, 2024, at 1:00 pm, followed by services at 2:30 pm. The Rev. Cary Stockett and Rev. Rose Mary Foncree will officiate. Memorials may be sent to: All Saints Episcopal Church, c/o Terry Johnson, 147 Daniel Lake Blvd, Jackson, MS 39212, or to the charity of your choice.
Terry Johnson's legacy as an advocate for justice, a devoted public servant, and a cherished member of his community will be deeply missed.
The family wishes to extend their thanks to the tireless efforts of the heart transplant team and the cardiology department at UMMC.