Franklin Lee Johnson

**In Loving Memory of Franklin Johnson**

Franklin Johnson, a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 81, surrounded by his loving family at Stormont-Vail Hospital. He was born on July 1, 1942, in Topeka, Kansas, to Benjamin (Ben) and Rosella (Rose) Johnson, who preceded him in death. Franklin spent most of his life in Hoyt, Kansas, where he made deep connections and left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Hoyt, Franklin's faith guided him through life, and back home. Additionally, Franklin was a member of Golden Rule Lodge No. 90 and rode with the Shawnee County Mounted Posse, which he enjoyed sharing that experience with his father at a younger age.

On July 6, 1963, Franklin married Nelda Parks, and together they welcomed one son, while Nelda also brought a bonus son into his life. Though their paths separated, their shared memories remained. Franklin met Mary Lingren-Hiles & together have a son. They also parted ways. On April 6, 1973, Franklin married Lucretia Smith, and together they raised their three children in Hoyt, Kansas, 25+ years before parting ways.

Following his graduation from Topeka high school, he furthered his education and earned a Certificate in Computer Programming. He put his skills to use as a programming clerk before transitioning to Santa Fe Railroad & Goodyear Tire. Eventually, he obtained his CDL in the 70s and embarked on a 45-yr career as a commercial truck driver. As an owner operator and spanning over a million miles, he returned home and worked locally for Kansas Sand & Concrete. He also served as a Union Steward for many years, advocating for the rights of his fellow workers during his employment there. He purchased another rig to haul grain locally before going back to driving over-the-road until he retired around 2015. His dedication to his profession was unparalleled, and he continued to obtain all necessary endorsements, including hazmat, double, and triple trailers, allowing him to handle any load with confidence and skill. While also enjoying a short time driving as a team over the road with his son Andrew.

Franklin's journey through life was marked by highs & lows, laughs, passion, orneriness, and steadfast love for his family, his years of traveling while driving OTR, friends, community, animals, and his horses. He graduated from Topeka High in 1960, where he continued to embark on a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and learning. An avid reader and a lover of music, Franklin found joy in playing a variety of instruments, from guitars and pianos to accordions. He also loved to attend & dance all the dances. Dancing everything from the jitterbug, square dancing, 2-stepping, & waltzing, to breaking down doing the twist.

Franklin's love for being a trucker, driving, travel, and adventure took him across the country, where he traversed the highways and byways, visiting all the lower 48 states and Canada not once, but twice. He had an innate sense of direction and often entertained his family and friends with stories from his travels, & always loved to help when anyone reached out for directions after they got lost, he had the spirit of a true adventurer.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Franklin's greatest joy came from supporting his children and grandchildren in their pursuits. He cherished attending their school events, concerts, games, horse and rabbit shows, and 4-H events, often traveling hundreds of miles to be there. Franklin's love for everything about, family, friends, country living & life, hunting, fishing, animals, particularly his beloved horses, was a constant source of joy and companionship throughout his life.

Franklin was strong and resilient, facing life's challenges with courage and determination. He overcame numerous health struggles, including quadruple open-heart surgery, battles with COVID, cancer, and many others, with his trademark stubbornness and refusal to back down.

Franklin is survived by his four sons: Scot Johnson of Texas, Ron Holzhuter (Wife Karin) of Colorado, Andrew Johnson (Marta) of Topeka, Shawn Johnson (Christy) of Topeka, and his daughter, Crystyl Morse (Husband Bob) of Texas. He also leaves behind ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, each a testament to his enduring legacy of love and family.

His larger-than-life attitude, infectious smile, and genuine warmth touched the hearts of all who knew him. He never met a stranger and had an uncanny ability to find common ground with anyone he met (usually). His presence brightened the lives of those around him, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering determination.

Visitation, Funeral and Reception will be held at Parker Price & Davidson Funeral Home, 245 NW Independence Avenue, Topeka, Kansas.

Visitation will begin this Saturday, February 10th, at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m., with Graveside services to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery 3616 SW 6th Avenue, Topeka, Kansas.

A reception with the family to honor Franklin's memory will be held back at the funeral home reception center immediately following the Graveside Services until 3:00 pm.

Memorial contributions may be made online to the Franklin's Memorial Fund-GoFundMe account to assist the family with Funeral & Burial Expenses. Alternatively, Contributions can be sent to Parker Price Funeral Home in memory of Franklin Johnson c/o Crystyl Morse.

Franklin will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Franklin's Memorial Fund-GoFundMe

Franklin's service will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time. Click here to view the service.