William Johnson, Jr. (95) passed away at his home on Wednesday, August 26, under the loving care of Liz Goldberg-Johnson, his devoted wife of 35 years. An exuberant and colorful spirit, William brought energy and joy to those around him.
Born on February 24, 1931, in Norristown, Pennsylvania, William was the third of four children born to the late Jesse White Johnson and William Johnson, Sr.. His parents and siblings predeceased him.
William is survived by his wife, Liz; his children, Jacqueline Johnson Forbes and Bill Johnson; and his grandchildren, Will, Emily, Kelcey, and Karla Johnson.
William earned his bachelor’s degree from New York University, where he was a member of the track team. He later received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry. Following graduation, he entered the United States Army and served as a dentist during the Korean War. He was a lifelong member of the New York Dental Society.
For 40 years, William maintained a private dental practice in the Mount Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia. His loyal patients were reluctant to see him retire, and he continued practicing until the remarkable age of 83.
William and Liz traveled extensively throughout the world, attending dental conferences and enjoying holidays together. Both avid runners, they belonged to the Freedom Striders of Philadelphia. William was also an enthusiastic reader who loved poring over the newspaper each day while enjoying the freshly percolated coffee Liz prepared for him. A gifted gardener with an extraordinary green thumb, everything he touched seemed to blossom in his strong and capable hands.
