Reverend Ron “Ronnie” Johnson, 68, passed away Thursday, December 17, 2020.
Born April 10, 1952 in Memphis, TN, he was the son of Elbert Johnson and Doris (Cox) Hiller.
He lived and Pastored in the Pontoon Beach area for over 38 years at Full Gospel Fellowship (The City of The Lord). Rev. Ron loved his church and the ministry God had given him charge over. He was revered for his love and passion for people. He would leave at a moments notice to be with those who were hurting or in need, even if it meant missing Christmas morning with his family or missing the chance to put his “boys” to bed. He never failed to give people what he treasured most, his love for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He believed that no matter what he could do himself, that Jesus was truly all he ever needed to share with people.
Ron also had another “passion” that he loved to bring up every chance he could; the Chicago Cubs. Even though he lived most of his life across the river from their rival (who shall not be mentioned), he always thought his fandom with the Cubs taught him, and his sons, about “faith in adversity”.
Rev. Ron loved his family. He was beyond proud of each of his grand-kids and loved to talk about the traits that made them all unique and perfect in his eyes. His sons were the pride of his life and he never failed to gush over them if given the opportunity; but it was his wife who the world revolved around. Marsha was his “Baby Girl” and he doted on her often (usually longer than his sons thought necessary). He loved to sit with family and just listen to family stories.
He never met a stranger. He would often be found sitting on a bench with a stranger just asking them to tell him their best story. He was loud, humorous, and some would say obnoxious at times, but he was infectious. People could not help but to flock to him and he loved to have people around him.
Rev. Ron is survived by his wife and “Baby Girl”, Marsha Copeland, whom he married on June 18, 1977 in Wood River; his sons, Ronnie “Little Ronnie” (Rebecca) Johnson of East Lansing, MI, Aaron (Heather) Johnson of Pontoon Beach; proud “Paw-Paw” to seven, beautiful grandchildren, Logan, Valerie, Macie, Brooklyn, Elizabeth, Charlotte and Juniper with an eighth grandchild expected in April 2021; his only brother, Richard (Dixie) Johnson of Granite City; many cousins; and countless nieces and nephews.
Private services were held for family and church members. His son, Aaron Johnson officiated.
Burial was in Short Cemetery in Cottage Hills.
The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to Full Gospel Fellowship, 3950 Horseshoe Lake Rd, Pontoon Beach, IL 62040.
Marks Mortuary in Wood River was in charge of arrangements.
