Earl Edward Johnson died Sept. 29, 2019 in Henryetta at the age of 85. He was born in Henryetta to Levi Burnett Johnson and Thenia Alice (Stiles) Johnson Nov. 7, 1933.
Despite having only a fifth grade education, Earl worked as a driver for Boerstler Bros. Wholesale. In August of 1952 at the age of 18 he joined the US Army. He served for 2 years stationed in Germany as a Private 2nd Class crewman in the 94th Armored Field Artillery Battalion.
After receiving an honorable discharge at Camp Chaffee Ark., Earl returned to Henryetta, was married and had two sons, Rick and Bobby Johnson. Shortly after the birth of his younger son, Earl was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. His mental illness caused him to lose touch with his sons. Following the death of his parents in the mid 1970’s, he was cared for by his brother Donald Johnson, “a good man.” His final 12 years were spent at Fountain View Manor in Henryetta where he endeared himself to the staff with his yodeling and other antics.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Donald & wife Deedie Johnson and his sister Reba and husband Roscoe Stubbs.
He is survived by several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service is planned for Saturday, Oct. 5 at 10:30 a.m. in Westlawn Cemetery under the direction of Rogers Funeral Home with full military honors.
The family requests that donations be made in Earl’s memory to Mental Health America at mhanational.org or a mental health charity of your choice.