Dr. Charles E. Johnson, 94 of Springfield, Mo. went home to the Lord on Tuesday, November 28, 2023.
Dr. Charles E. Johnson was born July 31, 1929 in Caruthersville, Missouri to the late Charles Troy and Ruby Johnson. In 1951, Charles met the love of his life, Bonnie Jean Johnson. They were married November 30, 1951. Charles and Bonnie recently celebrated their anniversary of 71 years together. Dr. Johnson began his 43 year career as teacher, principal and superintendent in the Reorganized School District R-VIII in Pemiscot County, at Caruthersville, from 1951-57. He was their first superintendent. During this time he simultaneously served his country in the Army National Guard for 8 years and attained rank of first lieutenant when discharged in 1958. He then served as elementary principal in the Lindbergh School District from 1957-61. From 1961-67, he was superintendent in the Vandalia School District, during which time he completed an Educational Doctorate at the University of Missouri, Columbia. Beginning in 1967, Dr. Johnson served for 27 years as superintendent in the Carthage R-IX School District.
During Dr. Johnson’s tenure, he and Carthage had many accomplishments. Reorganization of the district was accomplished when rural schools were joined with the Carthage Public School District to form the Carthage R-IX School District. The District maintained its AAA rating and senior high membership in the North Central Association. The Carthage Area Vocational-Technical School was developed as the only local vocational-technical school in Missouri. Several building projects were completed, including the Carthage Auditorium used frequently for school and civic activities. Virtually the entire special education program was developed under his leadership.
Dr. Johnson has served in leadership roles in several professional and community organizations; such as Missouri State Teachers Association, Missouri Southern State College Council on teacher education, vocational and technical training committee of Missouri Southern State College, Northeast Missouri School Administration Organization, Advisory Board of University of Missouri Alumni Association, United Way, Maple Leaf Festival steering committee, Rotary Club and the Carthage Chamber of Commerce.
In 1998, the University of Missouri-Columbia College of Education awarded him the citation of merit award for Outstanding Achievement and Meritorious Achievement in Education. In 2003, he received the pioneer of education award from the Department of Missouri Education.
Charles’ lifetime hobbies were tennis, travel, piano and riding his motorcycle. He was an avid and competitive tennis player. He won many tournament trophies. He traveled with Bonnie to Florida in their RV which brought them much joy. He recently played the piano as a volunteer at the Hulston Cancer Center. Many close friendships were made during this time.
As well as his professional leadership, Charles also led his family spiritually. He accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at the age of 17. From that point on, his life was redirected with purpose. He served in his local church as a deacon, adult Sunday School teacher and led a large building project giving space for growth. He was consistent in his walk with God and there was no guessing where he stood on his faith on any chosen day. He kept the extended family meeting regularly, asked good questions to continually support accountability and even had his own memorial service preplanned by purchasing his funeral expenses and location. Being prepared was his forte.
Charles and Bonnie had four children: Denise (Mike) Kelly, Danette (Robert) Fleming, Douglas (Stacey) Johnson and Dayla (Rick) Lairmore. 13 grandchildren were added to his family: Chelsey(Kraig) Bode, Dr. Chase (Michelle) Kelly, Shailey (Jonathan) Murphy, Bri (Jackson) Campbell, Brittney (Dylan) Harris, Cassidy Johnson, Natalie (Marcus) Lajeuness and Hadassah, Chloe, Adin, Eli, Camon and Asher Lairmore. 9 great-grandchildren: Ryann, Hudson, Luke, Emma, Opal, Moses, Josie, Mae and Jack. His love and pride for each one was immeasurable.
In addition to his parents, Charles is preceded in death by his wife Bonnie Jean Johnson and two younger brothers, Bill Johnson and Bob Johnson. He is survived by numerous loved nieces, nephews and friends.
Dr. Johnson, Charles, husband, father, grandfather, leader, friend, counsel, follower of Christ…You will be so missed here and we cannot wait to see you again for eternity.
John 6:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
A Celebration of Life will be on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. Visitation 10:00 AM: Service 11:00 AM at the James River Church Clark Chapel 6100 N. 19th Street, Ozark, MO 65721
In lieu of flowers, two worthy considerations for donations in memory of Dr. Johnson are: Carthage R9 School Foundation
(710 Lyon Street Carthage, MO 64836) James River Church Youth Center (6100 N 19th Street, Springfield MO)
Please designate “In Memory of Dr. Charles Johnson,” so an appreciation note can be sent.
Online condolences may be made at klingnerfuneralhome.com
