Obituary

Russell Charles Johnson Jr. peacefully relinquished his earthly body on February 26, 2026, with the gentle sound of his great-grandson's recorded voice playing quietly for him.

He was born to his loving parents, Juanita Johnson, née Thompson, and Russell C. Johnson Sr., on November 30, 1954, in Philadelphia, PA. He graduated from Overbrook High School in 1972, took some time to find his path, and then proudly joined the United States Army.

Russell was a star athlete, a devoted friend. He was a talented singer as well, so much so, he sang with the Philadelphia Boys Choir — a world-renowned ensemble where earning a place is considered one of the highest honors a young singer can achieve. In his school days, he played football and baseball at Overbrook High School and poured his energy into many league sports throughout Philadelphia. He was so gifted at baseball, he was scouted at 16 to play with the Kansas City Royals and attend training camp.

He served with dedication in North Carolina, Korea, and Germany, as well as many short deployments along the way. For 16 years, he proudly served his country, rising through the ranks and earning numerous medals and challenge coins.

It was during his service that he met and married Choe Chom-Ok while stationed in Korea. Together they built a life across Korea and North Carolina and welcomed two children into the world before eventually parting ways.

Russell is lovingly survived by his son Russell C. Johnson III and daughter-in-law Harmony Allen-Johnson of Philadelphia, PA, and his daughter Un-Joo Johnson of Tucson, AZ.

He is also survived by his six cherished grandchildren: granddaughters Armmoni Allen-King, Avery Allen-Johnson, and Autumn Allen-Johnson; grandsons Nigel Allen-King, Adam Allen-Johnson, and Bruce Huger-Allen; and his beloved great-grandson, Sage Bilaal, along with countless family members who carried a piece of his heart.

Russell adored his family, and had an enviable gift for making friends — nearly every person he met quickly became family too. He had a way of lifting people up, but was never one to shy away from an honest word when it was needed. And through it all, he loved to laugh. He leaves behind nothing but fond memories of love, laughter, and a life well lived.

A memorial celebrating the life of Russell C. Johnson Jr. will take place at The Loft at Landis in Limerick, PA. A portion of his ashes will rest at Limerick Garden of Memories for all who wish to visit; the rest will be where his heart always was — with his children, grandchildren, and Korea.