Allen Johnson

Mr. Allen T. Johnson

The Journey of a Life Well Lived

January 24, 1953 - August 14, 2023

Allen T. Johnson, affectionately known to family and friends as “AJ” or “Al,” was the fifth child born to Mr. James Welton Johnson, Sr. and Ms. Mamie Louise Wilson on January 24, 1953, in San Antonio, Texas. His parents and two siblings, Mary Louise and Marion Kay, preceded him in death.

At an early age, Allen accepted Christ and was baptized by the late Rev. Claude W. Black, Jr. at Mt. Zion First Baptist Church. He was actively involved in Sunday school, sang in the youth choir, and served in other areas of the church.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Allen gained an affinity for farming. As a young child. he worked alongside his father and became skilled at farm work. Under his father’s tutelage, he learned to tend cattle, plow the fields, fix fences, and perform other ranch-related tasks. After his father’s death in 1991, Allen maintained the inherited farmland for both the Wilson (Seguin, TX) and Johnson (La Vernia, TX) heirs until he encounterd health challenges. He was the epitome of a true “cowboy.”

Educated in San Antonio public schools, he attended Cuney Elementary, Emerson Junior High, and Brackenridge High School. During his teenage years, he became passionate about musical instruments and found great joy in playing the saxophone, organ, and drums. He played the saxophone in the Brackenridge Eagle’s Band until graduating in 1972. He also played in local San Antonio club bands before joining the military. One of his most memorable musical experiences was sitting in on a jam session with the “Godfather of Soul,” James Brown.

While pursuing a collegiate career, Allen decided to join the United States Air Force in 1973. He obtained an Associate Degree in Business Administration and completed coursework towards a bachelor’s degree from the Community College of the Air Force.

His first assignment as an airman was to the Security Police career field. During that time, he served as Flightline and Law Enforcement Supervisor for six years. In 1979, he was assigned to Bergstrom Air Force Base as a Formal Training Manager. He attended Managers Technical School in Wichita Falls, Texas, graduating in 1981. In 1983, he received an honorable discharge and joined the Air Force Reserves. He was unwavering in his love for the Air Force and remained very active. Allen was assigned to the 10th Air Force IG Team as First Sergeant of the 924th Civil Engineer Squadron. He was then promoted to Chief Master Sergeant of he same squadron at Bergstrom Air Force Base and 433rd Headquarters Squadron at Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

Allen’s highest decorations included the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Air Force Achievement Medal. After being discharged from the Air Force, he served with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) as an Enforcement Agent. He was also a co-founder with the Texas Education ISD as an instructor for Project S.A.V.E. He received his Master Peace Officer Certification and worked as a liaison for the Houston Police Department Homicide Division. Allen taught classes at the San An-

tonio Police Academy as well as the Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG) on Liquor Laws. He later retired from TABC in January of 2004. He was a Master Mason of Alamo Lodge #1491, Sir Knight of San Antonio Consistory #1 and Past Illustrious Potentate of Al Koran Shrine Temple #99.

Though he acquired much professional success and many accolades, he was a devoted father of his four children, Shantell, Terrell, Michael, and Treasure. He was a father who loved fervently and always shared sound wisdom and advice. Some of his most cherished moments were spent with his two adorable grandchildren, Aalaysjah and Bodi, whom he loved dearly.

Over a decade ago, he joined New Creation Christian Fellowship under the leadership of Archbishop David M. Copeland and Rev. Dr. Claudette A. Copeland. He enjoyed attending the 8 AM worship service (Pre-Covid) and participating in various church events.

Allen Johnson was truly a kind individual with a gen-

erous heart. He hosted holiday dinners at his home, supported his loved ones, and brightened rooms with his contagious smile. Each of these attributes were a reflection of his love for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Allen lived life to the fullest. His favorite pasttimes were farming, fishing, golfing, and fellowshipping with friends and family.

The Lord called him to his heavenly home on August 14, 2023. He was surrounded by family at the time of his transition. He leaves to cherish his memory his four children: Shantell Johnson, Terrell Johnson (Oletha), and Michael Johnson, all of San Antonio, TX; Treasure Johnson of Houston, TX. Siblings: James “JJ” Johnson (Shirley) of Houston, TX; Patricia Hannah of San Antonio, TX; Lynda Jeffery of Richmond, VA. Grandchildren: Aalaysjah Johnson of Houston, TX and Bodi Johnson of San Antonio, TX. Two Aunts: Mildred Wilson and Jewel Wilson. Allen will be dearly missed by nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Allen Johnson was truly a kind individual with a generous heart.

Tributes

Dear Dad,

I really enjoyed taking the flight of life with you. I am honored to call you Dad. Thank you for every blessing. I’m going to miss you dearly. My strength and comfort will come from knowing you are in the arms of the Lord. I will carry everything you taught me. I love you to the moon & back. As I look to the sky, I’ll say, “Fly High” until we meet again.

Love Always, Your Daughter, Shantell aka“Shanny”

Dad,

We’ll always remember that special smile, that caring heart, that warm embrace you always gave us. You being there for Mom and us through good and bad times no matter what. We’ll always remember you Dad because there will never be another one to replace you in our hearts, and the love we will always have for you.

Love Your Son, Terrell Johnson Dad,

Thank you for being there for me, even when no one else was and for never giving up on me.

Your

Son, Michael Johnson

Daddy,

My Superman. Thank you for your teachings, your patience, and unconditional love. It’s such an honor to call you Dad. I love you always and forever. Until we meet again, Daddy. Job well done.