William J. Johns

WILLIAM JOSEPH JOHNS, son of the late Rosa Abrams and William Thomas, was born on May 22, 1939 in Ridgely, Maryland (Caroline County). He departed this life after a lengthy illness on November 6, 2013. Affectionately known as “Billy”, he was the oldest of four siblings. He was raised in Denton, Maryland. After moving to Baltimore he received his early education in the Baltimore City Public School System. In 1958 he graduated from Frederick Douglass High School where he met Phyllis Blake whom he later married. From this union three children were born. A believer in God, Billy accepted the Lord Jesus Christ at an early age. In 1960 Billy enlisted in the U.S. Army and after completing basic training received orders to tour foreign countries such as Vietnam, 1964-66, Augsburg, Germany, 1970-73 and Seoul, Korea, 1980. He had tours of duty also in the U.S. While diligently serving his country he received numerous decorations, medals, citations and letters of appreciation, including the National Defense Service Award, the Marksman’s Badge, and medals from Vietnam for service and campaign. Having served faithfully and honorably for more than 20 years, Billy proudly retired Sergeant First Class in February of 1981. Billy was a talkative man who enjoyed a good conversation. He would never hesitate to encourage words of wisdom to anyone who would take the time to listen. He was a very strict advocate on respect and would stand his ground on any topic. He had a no-nonsense spirit and demonstrated it consistently. Billy was a lover of good music and kept a wide collection of albums ranging from Booker T and the MG’s, Wes Montgomery, James Brown and of course the Motown greats. He also had a passion for playing the bass guitar and joined a local band called the Rubies Orchestra. Other interests included his love for sports cars, especially the Mustang. He was a member of several auto clubs and received a number of trophies. He enjoyed attending the many auto shows in and out of state. Billy cared a great deal about his neighborhood and community, and for several years was an active member of the Cylburn Community Action Association. Billy leaves to cherish a legacy of memories: three children, Rhonda Parks, Rodney Johns and Robin Jernigans; son-in-law, Kenneth Jernigans; sister, Josephine Adams and husband Grafton Adams (sister Shirley Johnson preceded him in death); brother, Caroll Abrams and wife Mary Abrams; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild; a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends including a special and dear friend, Phyllis Dawes; and a host of supportive neighbors.

Tributes

William J. Johns

May 22, 1939 - November 6, 2013