David L. Johnson

David Lawrence Johnson, Sr., passed away at home peacefully on May 25, 2026, surrounded by his family. David placed his faith in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was welcomed into the peace and eternal embrace of Heaven. He was a member of Union Baptist Church and was baptized in the Little Pee Dee River on October 7, 2023.

He measured the richness of his life not by accomplishments, but by the people he loved. His greatest joys were found in the simple, meaningful moments: grandchildren curled up in Papa’s lap as he read them a book, cheering from the sidelines as his children played ball, long days spent boating down the river or fishing from the bank with family and friends, and the quiet comfort of time shared with his beloved wife, whose devotion and care carried him gently through his final days.

David was born in Florence, SC on August 1, 1955. He was a 1975 graduate of Latta High School. He spent many years working as a Market Manager for Bi-Lo and later as an Independent Distributor for Murray Biscuit Company. Yet those closest to him will remember far more than his career — they will remember the kindness he carried into every room and the way he made people feel seen and valued. David never met a stranger. With an easy smile, a generous spirit, and a heart full of compassion, he could turn a simple conversation into a lasting friendship. Many of his closest friendships were forged through a shared love of hunting, spending countless hours together pursuing deer, turkeys, birds, foxes, rabbits, and raccoons. Above all else, he cherished his family. They were the center of his world and the source of his greatest pride. Nothing brought him more joy than the sight of his grandchildren walking through the door, a moment that never failed to light up his face and fill his heart.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Betty Jo Johnson; children, David L. Johnson, Jr. (Shelley), Stephanie Johnson Ard (Brooks); grandchildren Katelyn Johnson, Brady Johnson, Hunter Ard, and Sarah Lauren Ard; siblings Mike Johnson (Sissy) and Val Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kline and Sarah Johnson, brothers Stephen Kendall Johnson and Danny K. Johnson, Sr.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, June 1st, at 5:00 at Union Baptist Church. A visitation will be held prior to the service at 4:00. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Clemson University, Dillon County Extension Office, 200 South 5th St., Dillon, SC 29536. (Dillon 4-H on the memo line).

Mr. Johnson is entrusted to Kelvin F. Lewis, the funeral director, and the Lewis Crematory & Funeral Home staff of Myrtle Beach, SC. (843) 294-0011.    

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