Jack Lamar Johnson

Jack Lamar Johnson was born on May 21, 1938, in Gainesville, Georgia, to Willie Daniels and Buster Johnson. Raised in a close-knit home filled with faith, community, and love, Jack grew up alongside his siblings—Georgia Ann, Buster Jr., Dorothy, Willene, Shirley, and Linda. Jack attended Fair Street High School, where he proudly played in the school band. It was during these formative years that he met his high school sweetheart, Mary Dell Thompson. Together, they welcomed their first child, Talford Johnson. In pursuit of greater opportunities, Jack moved north to Newark, New Jersey, where he completed high school. He later earned an associate degree in Business Administration in Nashville, Tennessee. During this time, Jack married his first wife, Georgia, and they had a daughter, Jackie Elivira Johnson. Though the marriage ended in 1968, Jack remained a devoted father. He also proudly served in the United States Army for two years, demonstrating the honor and commitment that would define his life. In 1969, Jack returned to Gainesville and reunited with Mary Dell. They married that same year and, in 1971, welcomed their daughter, Future. Jack began his distinguished career in law enforcement as one of the first African-American policemen in the Gainesville Police Department. He went on to serve with distinction for over 40 years and ultimately retired from the Winder Barrow Police Department. His time as a police officer was the joy of his life, and he dedicated himself to mentoring youth and giving back to the community he so deeply cherished. Jack was a man of purpose and unwavering dedication. He lived with integrity and took pride in being a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Known affectionately as “Grandpa” to his grandchildren—many of whom he helped raise—and lovingly referred to as “Mr. Jack” or “Pop” by others, he was a pillar of strength, kindness, and wisdom. Jack was preceded in death by his beloved daughter Jackie, his parents Buster and Willie, his brother Buster Jr., and his sisters Georgia Ann, Dorothy, Willene and granddaughter, Alesia Tiara Johnson. He leaves to cherish his memory: His loving wife: Mary Dell Johnson, His children: Talford Johnson and Future (Jacobey) Johnson-Simmons, His sisters: Shirley Lindsey and Linda Ellison, His grandchildren: Tamera (Eric) Tolbert, Destiny Simmons, and Christian Johnson, His great-grandchildren: E’Mya, Jediah, Melody, Maliya, and EJ and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces and nephews, and dear friends. Jack Lamar Johnson lived a life rooted in love, duty, and community. His legacy of service and compassion will live on through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Jack Lamar Johnson

May 21, 1938 - September 2, 2025