Lionel Johnson

Lionel Johnson, of the Silas Creek community in Ashe County, NC, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Lionel was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle who cherished time with family and had a deep love for animals — particularly dogs — and the outdoors.

He was born on December 26, 1946, in Silas Creek, to the late Walter and Esther Blevins Johnson. After graduating from Ashe Central High School, he attended technical school in Abingdon, VA, and worked as an auto mechanic before beginning a 30-year career as a highly skilled machinist (tool and dye maker) at Southern Devices/Leviton.

At Ashe Central, he met the love of his life, Brenda. Lionel and Brenda celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on June 5. Their devotion and love for one another has been a blessing to all who know them. He was a lifelong member of Landmark Baptist Church, where he was baptized.

Lionel had a gift for working with his hands — excelling at woodworking and bringing stubborn engines back to life. He was also an avid fisherman, enjoying many peaceful hours on the water.

Lionel is survived by his wife, DeLois “Brenda” Johnson; granddaughter, Kendra Johnson Blachly; great-grandson, Finn Blachly; granddaughter, Emma Fowler; daughter-in-law, Melissa Fowler; son-in-law, Tom Fowler; brother, Denver (Bernice) Johnson; and sister, Lorene (David) Powers, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Michael Lionel Johnson; his parents; and his sister, Loretta Weaver.

A graveside memorial service will be held Saturday, June 27, at 3:00 pm at the Howell Hill Cemetery. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to an animal rescue/shelter of the donor’s choice or to MediHome Health & Hospice, West Jefferson, NC. The family respectfully requests no food.

The family of Lionel Johnson has entrusted his services to Mountain City Funeral Home, 224 S. Church Street, Mountain City, TN 37683.