JOHNSON

C. Byron Johnson, 95, passed away on Monday, May 18, 2020 at his home in Sparta. He was born to Samuel Hurd and Jessie (Husband) Johnson on December 30, 1924 in Mt. Summit located in southern Randolph County, Illinois.

He graduated from Chester High School in 1943 and was drafted into the United States Army in June that same year. He served in the Army Air Corps as a B-24 aerial gunner in the China Offensive in Central Burma. Byron was the last surviving member of his 10-man crew.

On October 15, 1949, he married Billie Louise McMichael. She survives.

Byron was the owner of Sparta Equipment Company for nearly 25 years. In addition to selling International Harvester Farm Equipment, he was one of the first dealers in the state to carry Kubota tractors. He was also on the Dealer Advisory Council for Steiger Tractor Corporation.

He was preceded in death by his parents. One sister – Janet Heires. One brother – Hurd H. Johnson.

Byron is survived by his wife; daughter – Melanie Johnson of Sparta; brother – Ralph Johnson and wife, Ruth, of Chester; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A memorial service is planned for a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Mill Creek School Preservation or the Emery Cemetery Association in Mt. Summit, IL.

Heil-Schuessler & Sinn Funeral Home in Sparta, IL is in charge of arrangements

1. Debbie Bernardoni says:

   05/22/2020 at 3:39 pm

   Louise and Melanie, I am so sorry to hear of Byron’s passing. He was a woderful husbabd and father. I know he will be greatly missed. The Lord bless and keep you. The Lord make His face to shine upon you and give you His peace. I will keep you both in my prayers.

   Love, Debbie

   Reply
2. Linda Daniels says:

   05/22/2020 at 10:00 am

   He was such a pleasure to be around. Enjoyed his stories and his love for meteorites! I will be praying for your family. He will be missed!

   Reply
3. Madeline Hawley says:

   05/21/2020 at 9:05 am

   I knew Byron from the Randolph Co Service company when I was employed in the office there. I respected him and he was of the highest integrity. I would eventually attend the wedding of Byron and my friend, Louise. I left the area many years ago, but know they had a long and happy life together. My condolences to Louise, Melanie, and all of the family.

   Madeline Kocher Hawley

   Reply
4. Bill and Susan Atchison says:

   05/21/2020 at 6:08 am

   Byron and his brothers were such a great influence on my life when I was growing up. I wish I could have spent more time with them. Our prayers are that God will comfort his family and many friends during this time of loss.

   Reply
5. Joni Davis says:

   05/21/2020 at 4:01 am

   So sorry for your loss, I met your dad one time while visiting Ruth and Ralph, he and Ralph seemed very close, and I thought they sure did look alike. Lots of good memories I’m sure. Praying for you and your family.

   Reply
6. Linda Boston says:

   05/20/2020 at 11:02 pm

   To the family of Byron Johnson, sorry for your loss. He was so kind, caring , and Loving person. He always had a beautiful smile for everyone he came in contact with. He will be missed by all who knew and Loved him. Love you Mel.
   Linda B.
   Quincy, IL

   Reply
7. Mike Wilson says:

   05/20/2020 at 9:43 pm

   May the Perpetual Light of God always shine on Byron Johnson and his entire family, Forever and ever! … Amen!

   Reply
8. Midge Dobyns says:

   05/20/2020 at 9:40 am

   Mel, Sorry to read about the passing of your father. I will keep you & your mom in my prayers. Midge

   Reply
   • Barb and John Sahrhage says:

     05/20/2020 at 3:19 pm

     Melanie so sorry to hear about your day our prayers for you and your mom to get you through this tough time.

     Reply
9. Doretta Alms says:

   05/20/2020 at 9:32 am

   Louise and Melanie, I am sorry for your !oss. Byron will be truly missed. May the good Lord comfort and keep you.

   Reply