Thomas Johnson's Obituary
Our Beloved Thomas Michael Johnson, of Longview, Texas entered into God’s kingdom surrounded by his loving wife and family on October, 25, 2024, at the age of 51.
Thomas was born in Robinson, Illinois on June 23, 1973 to Benjamin and Teresa Johnson. He graduated from Taft Union High School in 1991, then continued his education at Louisiana State University. Geaux Tigers! At a later date, he graduated from Kilgore College with a degree as a radiologic technologist. He obtained a specialty certification in Interventional Radiology, and was well respected in work circles for his expertise, willing heart to help, and skills that helped save many lives. He became director of the Cath lab at Christus Good Shepherd, where he was loved by so many, including associates, volunteers, physicians, and patients. Many physicians and coworkers depended upon his expertise to figure out difficult diagnoses and to intervene when they were puzzled. Thomas spent 21 years working for Good Shepherd Medical Center, where he was known for his integrity and exemplary attention to detail. Until the end of his life, he was proudly working for Philips, working as a device rep for cardiac interventions. Additionally, he served on the Board at Kilgore College for the radiology program, providing admission advice to eager students that he helped approve for the program.
Thomas married the love of his life, D.D., on June 11th, 2007. He loved to tell his wife how beautiful she was, run her bath, scatter flowers around the house, and was always up for spontaneous adventures, including Disney World, Montana adventures, Arizona Boys weekend, and countless trips to Mexico with DD. Thomas loved his friends and family deeply. When he was not working, he enjoyed spending time playing with his granddaughter, Winifred, building puzzles with his wife and mother, building lego sets with Carson, gaming and visiting with his brother, playing Catan on the phone with his mom, being his mother-in-law’s go-to for any problem solving at home, eating any fabulous meal, and throwing football with his son, Carson. He provided funds and advice, in numerous ways behind the scenes for many personal endeavors with the family and for projects. He never liked to take credit for anything he did. He loved hanging out with his dear friends, who were more like brothers. Before Winifred was born, Carson was the apple of his eye. He was a proud father. Thomas loved watching LSU football, splurging out fantasy football advice for those who probably didn’t need it, watching UFC with friends, and supporting his Dallas Cowboys. Thomas had an immense love for the outdoors, where he spent a great deal of time cycling with friends and family, kayaking, riding in the Jeep with the top down, camping, fishing and landscaping with his wife. He loved to water his plants and tag-team the yard to perfection with Carson. His quick wit and infectious smile were always on display, and never hesitated to scramble up some eggs for the ones who were visitors regularly in his home. He always had an encouraging word and uplifting spirit for those who needed it. He truly loved unconditionally and had a zest for life.
Thomas was preceded in death by his father Benjamin Johnson; grandparents David and Betty Johnson, Stella and Paul Brubaker; and his father-in-law Thomas Robertson.
Left to cherish his memory, are his loving wife, D.D.; his sons Logan Lindsay (Gerron) and Carson Lindsay; his granddaughter, Winifred; upcoming grandbaby, Adelaide Fae; his loving mother, Teri; his brother and sister: Benjamin Johnson, Paige Johnson; his mother-in-law, Dixie Robertson, and numerous nieces, in-laws, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends. He was the best dog dad to Della and Ginger. He never missed an opportunity to give them a bone or a carrot on command. His voice remains on their feeders with his infamous whistle. The legacy he left here on earth was as a provider and hard worker. After seeing the life he lived, you just can’t walk the earth being a common man, doing common things.
The family would like to thank the many doctors, nurses, and medical staff who rushed to his side and provided an indescribable level of care in his final moments. When he entered the Cath lab, one of his beloved coworkers, Cookie, came and out to say “he taught us well”. We are eternally grateful for the family, friends, prayer warriors, and even strangers who cared for him from the Dallas heart flight team. Dr. Foreman, and the rockstar Nurse, Courtney provided so many hours of care to attempt to save his life. Dr. Foreman also provided sound advice and endless hugs when our family needed them. Thomas’s own heart team worked on saving his life, up to the last second. A special thank you to Dr. Mekala, who met him at the ambulance when he arrived to perform heroic life-saving measures with many of the team. In addition, a special thank you to Dr. Chastain, who answered his phone and came running to our aid. Brandon Bryant, ACNP played an integral role, with him never leaving his side. Dr. Arif cared for Thomas in the SICU and was exemplary. It would be impossible to name each person who played an integral role for these heroic measures, but we know who they are and treasure their service to our precious Thomas. Many nurses and precious coworkers held our family in their arms, as we watched the last moments unfold. You know who you are. Thomas’s final moments were a true testament to how deeply loved he was by everyone.
A celebration of life for Thomas Michael Johnson will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at Highridge Church in Longview, Texas, 2011 W Marshall Avenue, Longview, TX 75604, with supportive expertise from Rader Funeral Home. Food will be provided, after the graveside, at Rosewood Cemetery, for family and friends who would like to love us. Pallbearers in no certain order: Carson Lindsay, Logan Lindsay, Ben Johnson, Tom McGonigal, Charlie McInroe, Steve Sumpter, Alvan Duckworth, Bobby George, Joey George, Brian George, Randy Brown, Gerald (Cole) Colvin and Sean Simmons.
Psalm 34:18 says, The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. If you do not know Jesus, let us help. We know him well in our home, with an open door.
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