William Richard "Rick" Johnson

William Richard Johnson “Pa Pa Rick,” 65 years old, passed away Tuesday, August 30th, 2022 in Longview, TX.

He is survived by his sister Mary Jean Felts; his four sons, Ty Johnson, Jacob J. Johnson, William R. Johnson III, and Justin T. Johnson; ten grandchildren; two great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded by his parents, Phyliss Jean (Poole), and William “Bill” Gerald Johnson; and his brother, Don Cramer.

Rick was born March 7, 1957, in San Francisco, California, and graduated from Skyline High School in Dallas, Texas, Class of 1975.

Rick was an extremely passionate outdoorsman. An avid fisherman of many waters, including local lakes, tournaments, and offshore fishing. He also enjoyed hunting. He not only participated in these sports, but was exceedingly knowledgeable of the wildlife and surrounding nature conditions. He established a profound respect that each sport deserved, and took great pride in passing his knowledge to his four sons as well as future generations. Rick was passionate about the East Texas Youth Football League and continued to serve as commissioner for 10 years, well after all four of his sons played through. With four sons all on different baseball teams and football teams throughout the years, Rick and Laurie never missed a practice or a game. He loved his family.

Rick turned his love of sports and outdoors into a career. He became an entrepreneur and opened Pro-Line Sports in 1990, in Longview, Texas.

Prior to Rick’s passing, he was enjoying spending time with his family and friends, who were also there in support during his final days.

Visitation for Rick will be held Saturday, September 3,2022, from 2:00pm to 3:00pm at Grubs-Lloyd Funeral Home in Diana with a graveside service immediately following at Walnut Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.