Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Ernest Johnson Obituary
July 22, 1943 - April 8, 2025
Ernest Lewis Johnson III, beloved husband of Brenda Porter Johnson, father of Courtney Johnson Sievers, father-in-law of William Roberts Sievers, and cherished grandfather of Witten Porterstone Sievers, passed away on April 8, 2025.
Born on July 22, 1943, to Anna and Lewis Johnson, Jr., Ern lived in Victoria, VA. His family later moved to Williamsburg, where he finished high school. He met Brenda while they were both students at William & Mary, and the two married following his return from service as an Army reconnaissance pilot in Vietnam.
Ern went on to earn a master's degree in applied mathematics from Georgia Tech which launched his long and successful career as an actuary. He began at Metropolitan Life in New York City before accepting a position with Home Beneficial Life Insurance Company in Richmond. He later joined the Virginia State Corporation Commission, where he remained until retirement. During his time at the SCC, Ern frequently participated in national and international actuarial meetings including traveling to New York City for meetings at the World Trade Center. On one such trip, he bore witness to the tragic events of September 11, 2001, as he was approaching 2WTC as the first plane was making impact.
Ern and Brenda shared a love of travel to their home in the Outer Banks and their annual New Year's trips to Grand Cayman, where they had honeymooned. Together, they also explored Europe, visiting England, Scotland, France, Italy, Switzerland, and Spain.
A funeral service will be held at St. Mary's Episcopal Church on April 24 at 11 a.m.
Woody Funeral Home- Parham
Memories and Condolences
for Ernest Johnson
Sponsored by Woody Funeral Home Parham - Richmond.
4 Entries
Gayle Henderson
April 22, 2025
I worked with Ern in the Financial Regulation Division of the BOI for 18 years. He was a wonderful man with a try sense of human and a great smile. He was well respected in the industry and among regulators. He was always willing to share his knowledge and lend a hand. He would give you a bigger than life grin when you asked about the loves of his life - his wife, Brenda; daughter, Courtney and her husband, William Sievers; and especially, his cherished grandson, Witten Porterstone Sievers. He loved all of you with an undeniable passion. Rest well Ern. You will be missed, but never forgotten.
Michelle McNamee
April 21, 2025
I loved working with Erin both at Home Beneficial and again at the SCC. He was patient and kind and taught me a great deal. So sorry to hear of his passing.
Craig Chupp
April 21, 2025
Ern was highly respected in his work. I can't think of an actuary who acted in a more professional manner. I consider him my most influential mentor. Ern helped me transition to my new life here in Richmond and was always willing to lend me an ear when I had questions or just wanted to have someone to talk to.
How you can show support
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in Ernest Johnson's name
Memorial Events
for Ernest Johnson
Funeral services provided by:
Woody Funeral Home Parham - Richmond1771 North Parham Road, Richmond, VA 23229
People and places connected with Ernest
Richmond, VA
Richmond Times-Dispatch
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support Ernest's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Ernest Johnson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
