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David Johnson Obituary
David's successful, world-wide stage career began in 1970. He lived and worked in New York for 15 years, performing at the Metropolitan Opera and on Broadway, with Rex Harrison and Donald O'Connor. His work included singing with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Leonard Bernstein, Seiji Ozawa and Zubin Mehta, among others. For over 21 years he sang a variety of opera roles throughout Europe, Asia and South America. For 10 years he was engaged at the Vienna State Opera House, where he performed with all three of the famous tenors: Pavarotti, Domingo and Carreras.
David is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Jan Merchant; his family in Texas, sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Billy Moss; niece, Paula; nephews, Mike (Tillie) and Mark. Relatives and loved ones include in-laws, Julia and Norman Khoury, Eden, Karen, Christian and Caitlin Merchant and John Merchant. Special appreciation goes to our beloved aunt, Mary Watson.
Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Monday, May 3, 2010, at Washington Street United Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the music department of Washington Street U.M.C., 1401 Washington St., Columbia, SC 29201.
Please sign the online guestbook at www.dunbarfunerals.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Johnson
Douglas Leland
May 25, 2010
To David's Family
We were shocked to find out of David's passing. In NYC it has left us with no information. His picture was posted in the Equity lounge and many of us were shocked. Is it possible that someone could contact Keith Howard @ Actors Equity Association in New York so that his theatre friends could put closure to his passing as well. We send you our sincerest condolences. David JUST seemed to be getting into the swing of the crazy NY Audition scene. Keith's e mail is [email protected]
Douglas Leland
Harry Dedio
May 7, 2010
Last time I say David was on Edwin Forrest day, 4/23/2010 (Shakespeares birthday)at the actors home in Englewood N.J. We were shocked to hear what happened only 2 days later. Used to see him at Actors Equity Assn.
Howard Holl
May 4, 2010
Jan, Our hearts go out to you on this sad occasion. you're in our thoughts & prayers. Much love, Joy & howard Holl
May 4, 2010
Dear Jan,
What a terrible shock! I can't tell you how sorry I am. I was always so fond of David and his talent. I remember particularly our fun time in Paris when he was doing LUSTIGE WITWE there. I feel for you especially, having lost your Mother also so recently. You are in my thoughts and prayer. Margaret Singer
Helen Centner
May 3, 2010
Dearest Jan and Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I have so many fond memories of our time in Flensburg. Yes so many years ago. David was such fun in the rehearsals and I loved being with the two of you. My prayer are with you and if I can help let me know!
May 3, 2010
David had recently started coming to auditions in NYC and I didn't get to know him. I only shared humorous bon mots w/ him. I am sorry I didn't reach out more. I am very sad at his passing.
Douglas Leland NYC
Duna Miller
May 3, 2010
My heart is broken for you, Jan. I know only too well how much our Savior and remembrance of happy memories can carry us through the most difficult times. I also plan to be close by you always with my prayers and my love. - Duna Poteat Miller
May 1, 2010
Harriet and I send our love and condolences. Please be assured of our prayers duing this most difficult time. English and Harriet
Rick Brunner
May 1, 2010
Dear Jan,
Sorry to hear about David´s death. He is one of the people I remember so distinctly from our Staatsoper days. I have been looking for David on the net for the last few years and it is a shame to find him this way. Please accept mine and Karen´s heartfelt condolences.
Schöne Grüssen
Rick&Karen Brunner Leipzig&New York
Maria [email protected]
April 30, 2010
Jan I´m aware my words won´t ever fill the emptiness of your loss.
I won´t ever forget your comfort in Hamburg when I so much needed it.
I wish I could hug you. My prays are with you. Love always.
Jean Bridges
April 30, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Jim Mooney
April 30, 2010
My deepest condolences to Jan and David's family. I was priviledged to meet David in NYC, visit with him and Jan in Vienna, and have him as a guest in my home for a couple of weeks. I know he is in a better place and has the best "engagement" ever. He will like the conductor! My prayer is: May God hold you in the palm of his hand and bring comfort and joy to your soul. Rest in peace my friend.
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