David Johnson

OBITUARY: Alvin David Johnson, Jr, widower of Jennifer Jean Johnson, and father to Timothy (Johnette) and Amy, passed away peacefully at home with his loving daughter on December 4, 2022. Born in Rockville, Connecticut, son of Alvin David and Bertine Smith Johnson, brother to Jane and Paul, he spent his early years in Connecticut and Colorado where he met his wife, Jennifer, in Sunday School. He loved spending time at the beloved family home in Rhode Island. He graduated from Ottawa University and received a master’s degree and sixth year from Southern Connecticut State University. He served in Vietnam, volunteered for years as a Boy Scout leader and taught high school special education in West Haven, Connecticut. Together, David and Jennifer loved to travel and explore new areas and cultures. Dave continued travelling with his family on a trip to Niagara Falls this November. As a lifelong American Baptist, he was an active member of the First Baptist Church in New Haven and was very involved and committed to missions. He became family to many refugees resettling in the area. He loved supporting the ministry of Camp Wightman, the camp his father helped to found, and would spend a week there as “grampa” to his own grandchildren and so many children from First Baptist, New Haven. Despite many serious health challenges over the course of his life, he never faltered in staying connected to his family, his church family, ABCCONN, former students, friends and colleagues. His spirit will continue to be an inspiration to a large and diverse community. His life was full of love and service to others and he taught those around him to do the same. He was generous, gracious and accepted people for who they are. His tender heart was so expansive. Dave loved to laugh and we all benefitted from his keen sense of humor. He cherished each role he undertook: husband, father, teacher, friend, leader and especially his role as grampa. He enjoyed spending time with his four beautiful granddaughters: Caly, Aubri, Mckenna and Vivi. Dave spent his last morning in the church that he loved where he knew every board and brick. All who knew him, knew something of the love of God because of David. He was a model for many as to the way we should spend our lives. Now smiling from heaven and together again with his beloved wife of 51 years, the lives of David and Jennifer are infused in so many that they touched and knew. We were all so blessed and thankful to have known them. Gifts in his name may be contributed to First Baptist Church, New Haven. Contributions may be made by mail at 205 Edwards Street, New Haven, 06511 or online at firstbaptistnewhaven.org. Please consider sharing memories, photos and videos online at https://www.mykeeper.com/profile/DavidJohnson1/ or mail to 208 Mountain Road, Cheshire, CT 06410. A Memorial Service will take place on January 14 at 11am at First Baptist Church in New Haven, Connecticut.