Raymond Drew Johnson

Raymond Drew Johnson was born September 10, 1944 in Pensacola Florida, and passed away in his home on August 1, 2023 in Pensacola. Between these two events, Ray left a wide wake of impact and influence on the family and friends that knew him. Ray retired from the U.S. Navy as a Senior Chief with 28 years of serving the United States. This service led him into many lives across the globe, and to a life full of friends both within and outside of the Navy. In recent years, he has battled through numerous health issues including a couple of bouts with cancer. When asked how he was doing, a typical answer was “I’ve been better, but how are you doing?” Ray is preceded in death by his wife Patricia, and his parents Roy and Lila Johnson. Also preceding him were his step-son Stanley Roberts and nephew Troy Porter. Ray is survived by his son, Rick Johnson (Susan); son, Doug Johnson; and sisters, Mona Porter (Billy) and Debbie Sachetti (Paul); ex-wife, Mary-Gem Roberts; step-daughter, Melody Roberts; three grandsons, Parker Johnson, Seth Johnson, Issac Shelton, and granddaughter Khela Beck. Survivors also include numerous nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, cousins, aunts and uncles. Ray will be missed by his family and friends. Ray was a lifelong fan of the Florida State Seminoles and very much enjoyed cheering on the football team, but was not opposed to criticism if the team or coaches needed it. He was a very powerful athlete in his 20’s and 30’s, and a fantastic fastpitch softball player in several elite navy leagues. Many fans, teammates, and opposing players often marveled at legendary home-run moon shots off his bat. In later years, he developed a strong passion for the game of golf and enjoyed many hours on the course developing close friendships with fellow navy golfers. He cherished those moments. Ray was generally a quiet man, but when he did talk with you is was with a sincerity and honesty that was unmistakable. He was a very professional sailor, and proud of his work, and while stationed at Glynco (Brunswick, GA) was named navy sailor of the year, although he never boasted of accomplishments. His professionalism did not deter him from letting his practical joking side from thriving, and many adults and children have seen his prankster side. Virtually any person under the age of 10 that he knew can recite the story of “The Hairy Toe” and count many sleepless nights wondering about the missing toe and if it was coming for them. The family would like to thank the numerous caregivers, that have helped Ray through the years, particularly Dr. Bennett and the team of nurses with his recent cancer battle. Also, thank you to People’s Hospice, specifically Kiera, nurse Whitney, and nurse Kalah for assisting Ray through his final weeks in a dignified, comfortable, and pain free manner. Visitation services will be held from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. on Monday, August 7, 2023 at Faith Chapel Funeral Home (South). A memorial service will be held immediately after, and a burial service at Barrancas National Cemetery to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Mighty Oaks Programs veterans and active-duty support organization (mightyoaksprograms.org) Faith Chapel Funeral Home South, 100 Beverly Pkwy., Pensacola, Florida 32505 entrusted with arrangements. You may express your condolences online at www.fcfhs.com.

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Raymond Drew Johnson

September 10, 1944 - August 2, 2023