Obituary: Louie Henry Johnson Jr.
Mr. Louie Henry Johnson Jr. went to be with our Lord and Savior on June 8, 2026, at the age of 53, with the love of his life standing beside him. Louie was born on May 24, 1973, in Wake County and eventually resided in Grifton, NC, where he cultivated an enduring legacy of kindness, dedication, and love. He was a devoted husband, father, uncle, brother, and friend whose life was marked by faith, generosity, and service to others.
Louie was a 1991 graduate of Arendell Parrott Academy and a proud member of the 1990 APA football team, which was the legendary squad that was inducted into the Kinston/Lenoir County Sports Hall of Fame. The Patriots, who transitioned to 8-man football just two weeks before the season and, with no prior warning, remarkably secured the 1990 8-man state championship.
Louie's journey through life was marked by his strong work ethic and deep commitment to his community. Following in the footsteps of his father, Louie embarked into the field of agriculture early in life, dedicating nearly three decades to supporting local farmers. Later, he found his calling as an Agriculture Employment Consultant with the NC Department of Commerce, where he invested 25 years of service, connecting migrant workers with the farming opportunities that sustained their community. His career was not only a reflection of his professional skills, but also his unwavering belief in the power of community and family. Louie's belief that the kindness you give will find its way back was a principle that steered his existence and earned him the respect and affection of all who knew him.
On a personal note, Louie was the beloved husband of Jennifer Warthen, with whom he shared nearly 21 blissful years of marriage. Their love was made evident in their two cherished children, Sidney Johnson and Louie "Hank" Johnson, III, who were the lights of Louie's life. His dedication to his family was profound, and his love knew no bounds.
In addition to his professional and familial pursuits, Louie had a passion for singing karaoke, shag dancing, and the great outdoors, especially driving his tractor and working in the garden. He also found great joy in the quiet solace of fishing and the thrill of the hunt, often with his nephew, Henry, by his side.
Louie was preceded in death by his parents, Linda Johnson and Louie Johnson, Sr; his aunt Phyllis Smith; his aunt Lula Lewis; his uncle Marvin Little; and his grandparents.
Louie is survived by his wife, Jennifer (Warthen) Johnson; his children, Sidney and Hank Johnson; his sister, Verna Johnson Grimsley (Jasper); and his brother, Wilson Lee Johnson. He also leaves behind his nephew Henry Johnson (Abby), his aunt Laura Little, and a host of loving cousins along with many friends. His warmth touched everyone he met, and he remained a steadfast friend to all.
A celebration of Louie's life will be held to honor his memory on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at 3:00 pm at Sharon Church in Kinston, NC, with Pastor Angie Denton officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. Internment will be held at the family farm with a private burial. It is a time for family, friends, and community to gather and remember the kindness and love he shared with all.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in support of scholarship funds in his children's names (c/o Jennifer K. Johnson, State Employees Credit Union), or to Sharon Church in his honor, reflective of Louie’s enduring spirit of generosity and love for future generations. We also want to thank ECU Home Health and Hospice for their wonderful care.
Arrangements made by Edwards Funeral Home & Cremations. Online condolences may be made at www.edwardsfhc.com.
