Wilford “Willie” Lee Johnson 86, was born June 25, 1935, in Anthony, Kan., to Daniel “Lee” and Opal (Sullivan) Johnson. He passed away on January 5, 2022 in Kingman.
Willie grew up in Kiowa, moving to Kingman when he was in grade school. After high school graduation, he enlisted in the Marines, where he was stationed in Hawaii and 29 Palms, Calif.
On October 18, 1958, he married Carolyn “Jean” Johnson at the First Baptist Church in Kingman. The couple lived in 99 palms, Calif.; Kingman; Kansas City; and Topeka.
Willie spent much time traveling as he worked as a chemist, then in pharmaceutical sales. He owned Kingman Lanes in the late 1970s and 80s. His later career led him to be a purveyor with Mountain Man Nut and Fruit, and most recently selling promotional items with Halo and Appreciated Advertising.
Willie loved watching sports, especially the Kansas Jayhawk basketball team, where he served as an usher for many seasons. He spent much time on the golf course and at the bowling alley. He was a member of the First Baptist Church, Kingman, Ninnescah Lodge #230 A.F.&A.M., the Scottish Rite Bodies and the Midian Shrine.
Willie was preceded in death by his wife, Jean, and his parents Lee and Opal.
Willie will be missed by his family and friends. This includes his children Leigh Ann (Clair) Roderick, Monty Johnson and Mitzi (Dustin) Bailey. Grandchildren include Jeremy (Marissa) Roderick, Kristen Birket, Dakota Weippert, Blazi Weippert (fiancé Sam Nave) and RiLee Swink. Great Grandchildren include Grant and Reagan Roderick, Caleb Birket, Skylyn and Elijah Swink. Sister Lana Priddy, niece Crystal Walsh, nephew Dion Priddy.
Family will receive friends from 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 9, at Livingston Funeral Home, 1830 N. Main Street, Kingman. Graveside services will be at 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 10, at Walnut Hill Cemetery in Kingman.