Virgil L. Johnson

Please see scheduled service date and times below. 

Virgil Lewis Johnson, 93, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, at Hacienda Del Rey Care Facility.

He was born on August 2, 1932, in Decatur, Texas, to Elijah and Grace Ann Johnson, and was raised in Cleburne, Texas. From a young age, Virgil learned the value of hard work, shining shoes to help support his family. He attended school through the eighth grade and developed a love for baseball, even being considered for the Negro Leagues.

As the son of a preacher, Virgil accepted the Lord early in life and remained deeply rooted in his faith. He carried that foundation with him, dedicating himself to his church (Church of God in Christ), his parents, and his family throughout his life.

Virgil married his one and only true love, Catherine Elizabeth Sansom on September 11, 1949. To this union they bore 10 amazingly talented children.  Virgil and Catherine also had an honorary son, Roy Garcia, of whom they loved and cherished and accepted as their own.

Virgil spent much of his career working as a mechanic, including many years with Sears and Roebuck. Later, he found joy in gardening and took pride in maintaining the grounds around the Sears building. Outside of work, he volunteered as a Little League baseball coach, sharing his love of the game with younger generations. He also had a passion for farming, raising hogs and game chickens.

Family was the center of Virgil’s life. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Catherine Elizabeth Johnson, and four of his ten children: Virgil L. Jr., Jerry Lee, LaVesta Jesus, and CathAnn. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Elijah and Grace Ann Johnson, and his brothers, Hijilmer, Billy Joe, and Jessie Lee.

He is survived by six of his children: Mary Katherine Burton (Walter) of Diamond Bar, CA; Twila Louise Craig (James) of Laveen, AZ; James Richard Johnson (Ethel) of Phoenix, AZ; Michael Ray Johnson (Anganette) of Phoenix, AZ; Edna Faye DeAnne (Dee Dee) Johnson (Sylvester, Sr.) of Waddell, AZ; and Sharon (Shay Shay) Bullock (Grant) of Tucson, AZ Honorary son, Roy Garcia (Mary) of Tempe, AZ.

He is also survived by 52 grandchildren, 85 great-grandchildren and 17 great-great grandchildren; and a host of extended family members and dear friends.

Virgil will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help anyone in need—whether fixing a car or lending a hand around the house. His legacy of service, faith, and love will live on in all who knew him.

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