Earl Eugene "Gene" Johnson

Earl Eugene "Gene" Johnson, 87, passed away March 30, 2011. He was born August 4, 1923 to Jesse and Minnie Johnson. Gene was an avid outdoorsman and hunter. He was employed by CAT as a bus driver in 1945 and at the time of his retirement his 44 year tenure was a record among CAT drivers. Gene also farmed in the Furlow Community where he was raised, attended school at Union School, and remained a lifelong resident. Gene mentored the youth of the community, teaching them the importance of doing a good job and having a good work ethic, while sharing the message of "If you treat people with respect, they'll treat you with respect." He is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, two sisters, son, Kenny and grandson Bradley. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Ina, son, Douglas (Thelma), grandsons, Jesse and Eric, and two great-grandsons and one brother, Hubert Johnson of Austin. Visitation will be held Thursday, from 6-8 p.m. at Boyd Funeral Home, Lonoke. Funeral Services will be at Concord Methodist Church, Friday, April 1 at 2 p.m. www.boydfuneralhome.net.