The Richmond News, April 21, 2023

Thomas Edward Johnson, 71, of Richmond passed away Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at his home. He was born Feb. 6, 1952, in Seattle and was born to Russell Graham Sr. of Higginsville and Thelma (Jackson) Johnson of Odessa. Thomas was united in marriage on Oct. 23, 1974, in Kansas City to Genevieve (Robinson) Johnson, who survives at home. He was an avid music lover, dancer and singer. He loved to fish, the Rams football team and to have a good conversation with almost anyone that would listen. He was a people person.

He retired from the Richmond Housing Authority as head maintenance supervisor.

Survivors of the family include: two daughters, Keesha Johnson of Richmond and Kay (Lewis) Benton of Blue Springs; a bonus daughter, Sasha Robinson of Richmond; a son, Curtis Johnson of Richmond; six grandchildren, Jacoby Johnson, Keona Johnson, Gabriel Johnson, Kardae Durham, Kamisha Launiu and Morgan Benton; a great-granddaughter; a bonus grandson, Jaxtyn O’Dell; two sisters, Debra Johnson of Independence and Brenda Harris of Kansas City; two brothers, Finnus Johnson of Higginsville and Howard Johnson of Shreveport, La.; and three half-sisters, Pamela Graham, Doris Graham and Brenda Haynes.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Louis Johnson, Graylon Johnson and Russell “Beau” Graham Jr.; and three sisters, Shirley Lomax, Sandra Johnson and Connie Graham.

He had a close connection with his cousin, Gary Brown of Kansas City; and brothers-in-law, Matthew Fields and Micheal Robinson, both of Richmond.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Thomas Johnson Memorial Fund. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Memorial services with visitation will be held on Friday, April 21, at the Richmond St. John’s CME Church, 1625 E. Main St., Richmond, with visitation beginning at 11 a.m. and services to follow at noon.

His wishes were to be cremated and laid to rest in Odessa by his mother. Inurnment will be held at a later date.

Please share your memories of Thomas with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.