YOAKUM: Will Joe Johnson, 84, entered his sunset August 11, 2026. He was born on April 23, 1942, in Yoakum, Texas, the fifth of fourteen children born to Essick Johnson Sr. and Josie Mae (Turner) Johnson. Raised in a Christian home, he professed his hope in Christ and was baptized at an early age. In time, he joined many of his family members as a devoted member of St. John Baptist Church in Yoakum, where he served faithfully for many years.
Affectionately known as “Dub,” Will Joe attended Yoakum public schools. From a young age, he was eager to work and contribute to the well-being of his family. He held various odd jobs before securing employment at Eddy’s Packing Company, where he worked with unwavering dedication for more than 44 years. His commitment was extraordinary—he never missed a single day of work. Even after retiring, the new owners continued to contact him for custodial duties because of his reliability, strong work ethic, and trusted reputation.
Dub was an exceptionally intelligent and resourceful man, blessed with a God-given ability to master anything he set his mind to. He taught himself mechanics, construction, electrical work, and countless other trades, approaching each with determination and skill. He loved his family deeply and took great pride in helping organize the Johnson Family Reunion each year. He devoted many hours to mowing and caring for the graves in his family cemetery, honoring those who came before him.
One of the greatest reflections of his character was his unwavering devotion to his parents and grandparents. He visited them faithfully—every single day of their lives—often shortening vacations or adjusting travel plans to ensure he never missed a day. He lived by the scripture to “honor your father and mother,” and he embodied that commandment completely.
Dub also cherished his hometown of Yoakum. It was the place that shaped him, supported him, and grounded him. He was determined to spend his final days surrounded by the familiar community he loved so dearly.
Will Joe leaves to cherish his memory his devoted children: Dwan Johnson of Arlington; Marshalette Hooper (Byron) of DeSoto; Kevin Johnson (Michelle E.) of Denton; and Cedric Johnson (Beja) of Cedar Hill; grandchildren, Xavier Johnson, Angelica Johnson, Bronson Hooper, and Laila Johnson; great-grandchildren, Arden Johnson and Kayden Johnson; sisters, Ella Mae Dillard of Irving, Carolyn Carter (Michael) of Indiana, and Olivia Johnson of Austin; brothers, Clarence Johnson (Kim) of Georgia and James Ray Ford of San Antonio; the mother of his children, Earnestine Johnson; and a host of extended family and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.
He is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Ruth Ella Davis, Helen Rivers, and Sandra Kay Johnson; brothers, Otis Johnson, Willie Johnson, Essick Johnson Jr., James Johnson, and Philip Johnson; and daughter-in-love, Michelle Y. Johnson.
Funeral Service were held Saturday, August 22, 2026 at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home with Pastor Tilley officiating. Johnson is buried at Yoakum Restland Cemetery.