Oliver O. Johnson Jr.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28-30 Oliver Odell Johnson, Jr. passed away on February 25, 2021 at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. Oliver was born August 19, 1934 in Triangle, Virginia and lived most of his life in Washington D.C. Oliver, affectionately known as "OJ", was the only child of Lois Arnetta Johnson and, Oliver Odell "Hawkshaw" Johnson Sr. Oliver attended boarding school at Jennie Dean High School in Manassas, Virginia. After graduating in 1952, he joined the U.S. Army and served four successful years. Returning from the Army, Oliver gained employment as a U.S Postal Carrier in Washington, D.C. and remained there until retirement. Oliver loved keeping busy. After retirement he accepted a position with Dudley Martin's Chevrolet. Oliver married his wife Joan in 1963 and they spent 58 wonderful years together. He was a proud father of their beloved daughter Valarie S. Johnson, who preceded him. Oliver was dedicated to his hobbies; vegetable gardening, watching the Washington Football Team and playing the D.C. Lottery.
Oliver leaves to celebrate his life; loving sisters-in-law, Belinda Thomas, Martha Prescott, Barbara Lewis, Esta Thomas and Vera Thomas; dedicated brothers-in-law, Aubrey Thomas Jr., Willie O. Bennett, and Joe Lewis. Cousins: Daniel (Margaret) Johnson, Jerome (Linda) Johnson, Frank (Doris) Lewis, Herman (Brenda) Lewis, Gary (Mary) Lewis and Jean Jones, Anthony Grayson, Rickey (Janet) Grayson and Janice (James) Buie, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Preceded in death by: Jack Thomas (Esta), Anita and Robert Jones, Lewis Prescott Sr. (Martha), Pastor Betty G. Bennett (Willie O.), Frederick Jones (Jean), and Bettye Grayson (Anthony). His generosity of spirit and intensity of his love will be missed by all.