He was born August 4, 1935 in Rockaway Beach, N.Y., to Leroy and Grace Agnes (Brennan) Johnson. He grew up in Florida, and joined the Navy after graduation from High School in 1954. A Navy Veteran, he was an early warning radar operator on the Super Connie during peacetime. He loved to hunt, fish and restoring old marbles. Leroy was an Ag Chemical Specialist at the York Co-op for many years and was a member of the Methodist Church. He also loved pets, spending time in his flower garden, and being a wonderful grandfather who deeply loved his grandchildren and all of his family, and he enjoyed his friends as well as the community.
Leroy is remembered by his children as a loving family man, who spent a lot of time hunting, fishing, and playing catch with them. He taught his sons how to be good fathers, and strong family men, and instilled a work ethic, love of country and honor in them. Leroy was enjoyed and admired for having the heart of a servant, for being a provider for his family, and for his civic mindedness, and especially for the respect he showed towards others.
On August 7, 1957 he was married to Judith Dodson at Nehawka, NE.
He is survived by his wife Judy of York, sons; Retired Lt Colonel Keith (Jane) Johnson of Yorktown, VA., Kerry (Elizabeth) Johnson of Austin, TX, Kris (Amy) Johnson of Hope, N.M., and Kurtis (Pam) Johnson of Lincoln, NE. Also surviving is his grandchildren; Kathleen Johnson, Shawn (Caitlin) Johnson, Joshua Johnson, Sarah Johnson, Claire Johnson, Ty Johnson, KayCee Johnson, Cody Johnson, Samuel Johnson and Haley Derr, and sister-in-law JeNeane Dodson, and special family Danny (Karen) Derr.
He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers and 1 sister.
On Sunday, April 8, 2018, from 1:30 – 4:00 PM, there will be an informal gathering for friends and family to celebrate Leroy’s life at the York Area Senior Center. No viewing or visitation as cremation has taken place, but memorials may be sent to York Adopt-A-Pet or to any pet rescue of your choice.