It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Judge David G. Johnson. Judge Johnson passed away in his home surrounded by loving family and friends on February 12, 2025.
David was born on October 8, 1953, in Houston, Texas. After high school in Pearland, Texas, David joined the Houston Fire Department at the young age of 18 and continued his service for 21 years until his retirement as a fire captain in 1993.
One week later, David was appointed as Polk County Justice of the Peace Pct. 2 where he served on the bench for 23 years until his retirement in 2016. In the midst of both careers, David served as Onalaska Municipal Court Judge for 35 years, retiring in 2023. Throughout his tenure on the bench, he was known for his fairness, integrity and compassion. David was also an active member of the Onalaska Volunteer Fire Department.
Judge Johnson began a Men’s Promise Keepers group for several years and led many to Christ. His love for God was immeasurable and his Bible knowledge was truly a gift.
Judge Johnson will be carried to his final resting place by Tommy McClain, Kristopher Johnson Benfer, Kenny Johnson Benfer, Jack Rowland, Bill Cunningham, Tommy Sheffield and Ron Gilbert. Honorary pallbearers will be Roy Epperson, Mayor James Arnett, Judge Terri Lynn Mayer, Jennie Caple, Andrew Sebaugh, Richard Gerard, Rodney Friery, Russell Wilson, Bobby Fields, Judge Greg Magee, Doc Roland and Corky Cochran.
Special thanks to Judge Terri Lynn Mayer, Tommy and Tanya Sheffield, Roy and Sherilyn Epperson, Jack Rowland and Paloma Perez, Dennis and Loveearl Hodge, Alan and Jessi Stanton, Bill and Wendy Cunningham, Mark Dubose, Pastor Cameron Veazey, Onalaska Volunteer Fire Department, Polk County Sheriff’s Department, Onalaska Police Department, Livingston Police Department, Houston Fire Department Honor Guard and Olive Branch Hospice.
Judge Johnson’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him and all who he mentored. Judge will be missed dearly, but his life’s work and the impact he had on his community will continue to inspire for years to come.
David was preceded in death by his grandparents; parents, George Johnson and Vivian (Williams) Johnson; and brother; James Johnson.
David is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Patti Johnson; daughter, Stacy Friery and husband Rodney; sons, Thomas McClain and Michael Johnson; grandchildren, Kristopher, Kenny (Lily), Lauren (Mario), Tyler, Damien, Quentin, Addison and Tyler R.; and great-grandchildren, Kreed, Anakin, Mireya, Evelyn and Mario; along with numerous other relatives and friends including his sister Pattie (Clay) Childress and brother Duke (Vonda) Johnson.
Funeral services will be held Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the Cochran Funeral Home Chapel in Onalaska, Texas with Bro. Dennis Hodge officiating. Interment will follow at Magnolia Cemetery in Onalaska. Visitation will be held Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 6-8 p.m. at the Cochran Funeral Home Chapel in Livingston, Texas.
Cochran Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at www.cochranfh.com.
