"We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ."

1 Thessalonian 1:3 NLT

Rufus Clarence Johnson, 88, entered his eternal rest on December 2, 2024, in Lima, Ohio. Born on May 24, 1936, in Eutaw, Alabama, Rufus was a respected member of the Lima community, having graduated from Lima South High School. He proudly served in the Marine Corps, embodying the values of discipline, honor, and commitment throughout his service and later life. He retired from Ford Motor Company after over 40 years of employment. Determined to reach his goal of being a skilled tradesman to provide a better financial future for his family, he broke racial barriers and became the first Black Tinsmith at Ford Motor Company's Lima Engine Plant.

Rufus was a beloved husband to Myrtle A. Ward Johnson, a devoted father to Bethany J. Johnson Williams, (Vincent-deceased) Kelvin L. Johnson (Joleata), Elizabeth A. Johnson-Tyson (Anthony), and William R. Johnson, (Marsha) and a cherished grandfather to Jarvis, Morgan, Alexandria, Rufus, Michael, Caleb, Lavonia, Joshua, Hannah, and MarShon. He was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren: Aaloni, Ashton, Azra, Jaxon, Bronson, Jermain, and Jersey. His roles as a loyal brother, friend, and dutiful uncle were deeply valued by his family and those who knew him. Rufus was known for his strong work ethic and devotion to family, traits he passionately instilled in his children. Strong in these convictions, he led by example.

Beyond his family and military service, Rufus was an active member of the Fourth Street Baptist Church, where he engaged deeply with his community. In keeping with his commitment to care for others, he served with the UAW voluntary group of retirees who built wheelchair ramps for those in need.  As part of his legacy, Rufus ensured his children and grandchildren knew how to bless others. He often took them to convalescent homes to visit those without family and gave of himself freely to those in need. His hobbies included reading, gardening, hunting, fishing, and spending quality time with friends and family, which brought him much joy and fulfillment. He enjoyed nothing more than time with loved ones and attending family reunions.

Rufus was predeceased by his parents, William Johnson and Elizabeth McAlpine Johnson; brothers, William Johnson, Eddie Johnson, and Henry Johnson; sisters, Bettie Walton, Myrtle Shambley, Osie Powell, and Ruby Freeman; and several nieces, nephews, and great nephews and nieces. Rufus accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and looked forward to leaving his broken body. In addition to his wife, Myrtle, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, he is survived by his precious sister, Bernice Moten, and two half-siblings, Ella and Eddie Johnson, and a host of nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

A homegoing celebration to honor Rufus's life will be held at Fourth Street Baptist Church at 1 pm. Viewing hours are from 11-1. The burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery. Please join us in honoring this great man.