Ernest G. Johnson Jr., age 80, of Wake Village, TX, passed away at home surrounded by family on April 25, 2025. He was born on November 11, 1944, and claimed his eternal inheritance through his faith in Jesus Christ. A beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Ernest lived a life full of love, laughter, and devotion to both his family and his Lord.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lucille Chumley Day; stepfather, Alton Day; father, Ernest G. Johnson Sr.; uncle, Earl Chumley; mother-in-law, Vickie Halter; son-in-law, Todd Fore; and his beloved dog, Tex.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Vivian Johnson of Wake Village, TX; his son and daughter-in-law, Wade and Connie Johnson of Texarkana, AR; his daughter, Joanna Fore of Texarkana, TX; and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, John and Sue Halter of Belton, TX. He is also survived by four grandsons and their wives: Jason and Lindsey Fore of Seguin, TX; Colby and Samantha Fore of Maud, TX; Austen and Mackenzie Wood of Maud, TX; and Carson Wood of Jonesboro, AR. Additionally, he leaves behind two special great-grandsons, Steven and Luke Fore of Maud, TX, along with many other loving family members.

He loved his Lord and his church, First Baptist Church on Moores Lane in Texarkana, TX. He deeply loved his family and their special little dog, Tex. Ernest enjoyed camping and riding his jet ski, exploring the lake each summer and gliding down the same familiar coves. In his younger years, he played volleyball and softball and was surprisingly skilled despite his shorter stature. He also excelled at ping pong and pool. Though he grew to enjoy fishing, he admitted he never got quite as good as he hoped. He dabbled in golf and was known for playing a mean game of horseshoes.

Ernest was a math major at East Texas State in Commerce, TX. He worked 22 years in the IT Department at Wadley Hospital in Texarkana and later spent 17 years with BWI in Nash, TX. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy as a radioman during the Vietnam War.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Tri-State Cremation. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM in the atrium at First Baptist Church on Moores Lane.

Some of his ashes will be spread at Daisy State Park on Lake Greeson (Narrows), at his favorite spot where he spent many days making memories with family and friends—marking that place as HIS forevermore.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to the First Baptist Church Building Fund.

Ernest Johnson

November 11, 1944 - April 25, 2025

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