Reginald Burley Johnson

And, on Friday, October 5, 2012 after being in the hospital for five months the Lord knowing the struggle that Reginald Johnson had endured, welcomed him into his heavenly home. Reggie, as he was fondly known, the second son of the late Jeremiah and Bernice Johnson, was born July 25, 1935 in Baltimore, MD. Reggie was educated in the Baltimore City Public Schools and graduated from Douglass High School in 1953. His fascination with airplanes led him to enlist in the United States Air Force where he was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska. He received an honorable discharge in 1957. While in Alaska, Reggie learned ballroom dancing and upon his return to Baltimore was elated to demonstrate his smooth moves on a local TV show. Reggie also decided to further his education and attended Morgan State College to study accounting. In 1961, Reggie began his career in transportation and was employed at the Baltimore Transit Company, driving streetcars and buses. In 1983 he was selected to be among the first group of supervisors for Baltimore’s new subway system. In 1991 he selected to be in the first group of supervisors for Baltimore’s new light rail system. He thoroughly enjoyed his work. However, after thirty-three years of service he reluctantly retired due to a kidney ailment and was on kidney dialysis for two and a half years. While on dialysis, by faith in God and a longing to return to work, Reggie submitted and application to work at the MTA once again. He was accepted for the job, and the Lord blessed him with a kidney transplant before he was required to report for work. Reggie worked at the MTA store on St. Paul Street for nine years until his health no longer permitted. Reggie married the former LaVerne Meekins in April 1972. They were married forty years last Easter Sunday. Reggie was so proud of this milestone that he decided to announce it during church service. Prior to his failing health, Reggie enjoyed traveling with his wife on vacations, working on house projects and socializing with his friends. Reggie also enjoyed attending activities with the Douglass Class of 1953 and always looked forward to the MTA Retiree events. While in his youth, Reggie was reared in church and baptized. His grandmother saw to that. On January 1, 1978 Reggie and his brother Jerry, who preceded him in death, rededicated their live to Christ and joined Bethel AME Church, under the pastorate of John Bryant. They immediately joined the Usher Board. Reggie served for almost thirty years until his health declined. The more his health declined, the closer he drew to God. Whenever he talked about the Scriptures or attempted to share the Sunday Sermon, he always ended in tears. Reggie leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted and loving wife, LaVerne; one sister, Yvonne Wesson (Joseph); two sisters-in-law, Martha Johnson and Rosa Smith (Bernard); nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

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Reginald Burley Johnson

July 25, 1935 - October 5, 2012