Services
Obituary
Guest Book
Leslie Thomas Johnson “Les” died peacefully at home on Tuesday, May 16, 2017. Visitation will be 5-7 PM Thursday, May 18, and 10 AM Friday, May 19, with services to follow at 11 AM at Highlands Presbyterian Church (1160 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, MS). Les was born on August 8, 1936 to H.C. Johnson, Sr., and Dorothy Dearman Johnson.
A Columbus, MS native, he graduated from Mississippi State University, where he was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. After graduation, he served in the Army Reserve, was the band director of Pearl High School, and later worked for the Mississippi State Highway Department. He spent the rest of his career in the sporting goods industry where he had fond memories of the many friends he encountered.
He was known by his friends and family for his dedication to service work. As a long-time member of Jackson Bass Club, he chaired the Have-A-Heart Fishing Tournaments for the American Heart Association. Due to his outstanding volunteer service, he was chosen to run in the 2006 Olympic Torch Relay. He was a founding member of Physically-Challenged Bow-Hunters of America & a Deacon at Highlands Presbyterian Church in Ridgeland. As a Deacon, he served as Chairman of the Mercy Ministry and oversaw the building. He was well known for the creation of the backdrops for VBS. Les loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. Known as “Boo Boo” to his grandchildren, he enjoyed nothing more than to spend time with them.
He is survived by his wife, Kay Clements Johnson, along with daughters Leslie Johnson Chunn of Mobile, AL and Katy Walker Martinez (David) of Monroe, LA. He was the proud grandfather of Amanda Chunn, Reeves Walker, Hayes Walker, and Isabella Martinez.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Highlands Presbyterian Church Deacon’s Fund or Madison Countians Allied Against Poverty (MadCAPP).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Parkway Funeral Home and Memorial Park.
May 19, 2017
The Staff of Parkway Funeral Home
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
May 19, 2017
Ginger W. Hite
So sorry to hear of Les' passing. I always remember the fun guy from Lee High School and especially when we were in the band together.
May 18, 2017
Dolores Suedel
I will always remember Mr. J., as I called him. I know he is in God's care , his last time with us was not an easy one, so ill. My deepest condolences to Kay and family, love you. He will be missed by many.
May 18, 2017
Nancy Alford
I remember him as band director at Pearl and he was well loved by all!
May 18, 2017
Jerry Eichelberger
You will be missed brother. It was a blessing to be a part of your life and to call you a friend!
May 18, 2017
Ron Rounsaville
Sorry for your loss I remember Les well from our days at State and the Famous Maroon Band.
Ron Rounsaville Gatlinburg , TN
May 17, 2017
Julie Stilley
Mrs. Johnson, Leslie, Katy, and family,
I was so sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Les. He was a very special man and wil be missed by many. (I have very fond memories of going to y'alls house as a child for piano lessons and hearing him telling stories, jokes, and talking about his hunting and fishing trips!) My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I pray that God will wrap His arms around you and give you comfort.
With sympathy,
Julie Broome Stilley
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
May
19
Funeral services provided by:
Parkway Funeral Home and Memorial Park1161 Highland Colony Pkwy, Ridgeland, MS 39157
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more