Leroy Cherokee Johnson

LEROY (MILTON) RANDOLPH JOHNSON, affectionately known as “Cherokee,” was born in Calvert County, Maryland on Tuesday, March 22, 1938, to Annie Mary and Henry Davis Johnson. He peacefully transitioned into God’s hands on Friday, October 17, 2025. “Milton” or “Cherokee” (as he liked to be called), was the 7th of 14 children born to two hardworking, devoted and dedicated parents. As a child, he often worked with his father while farming, which birthed his love of gardening. Milton was an expert plantsman. He could bring any plant back to life with his bare hands. He was truly gifted. As an adult, this love propelled him into his career as a landscaper. Milton truly loved to take even the barest stretch of land and turn it into something beautiful. While creating another masterpiece in the early 1960’s, Milton stumbled upon the woman who would become the love of his life, Ms. Ludella Green. They created and shared a loving home that nurtured, provided for and raised their two children, son Antonio Johnson and daughter Roberta Green (Spence). Not only was this home a haven that served as a safe place for so many in need, it was also filled with the gospel and love of God. Milton was truly a man of God. He exuded God’s love and never let any forget the goodness of the Lord. He was there to pray for and with family and friends, teach the word and spread the gospel. He served as an usher at First Baptist Church and devoted much of his later life to his church. He truly loved his church and church family. Milton taught everyone is his presence to love God, love themselves and love each other. Milton’s legacy lives on through: two sisters, Mary Anderson and Rosie Cooper; brother, Henry Johnson Jr.; (son Antonio Johnson preceded him in death); daughter, Roberta Green (Spence); six grandchildren William Simmons, Shanta Johnson, Sharil Allen (who proceeded him in death), Frances Allen, Lashon Kelly (Timothy) and Cortez Lewis (Monique); forty-two nieces and nephews; fifteen great-grandchildren who loved him dearly, and an extensive family and a host of friends who also loved him tremendously. He also leaves to treasure his memory, two devoted friends who stuck beside him until the very end, Harry Brown and Patricia Bennett.

Tributes

Leroy Cherokee Johnson

March 22, 1938 - October 17, 2025