Richard "Dick" Johnson

Richard O. ''Dick'' Johnson, 84, of Zanesville, died Thursday, October 4, 2012 at his home in Nokomis, FL following a brief illness. He was born Monday, May 14, 1928 in White Plains, NY, the son of Okey Johnson and Marjorie S. (Fredman) Johnson. He married Jane (Chase) Johnson on Wednesday, December 26, 1951 and was a member of Euclid Avenue Methodist Church. Dick was a 1952 graduate of Muskingum College, where he also received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters Degree and Distinguished Service Award from the College. He also received an honorary Associate of Public Service Degree from Muskingum Area Technical College. He was General Manager, President and Chief Executive Officer of Clay City Beverage Inc., which operated the Pepsi Cola Bottling Company of Zanesville. He also operated J.J. Agro, Inc. Dick was very involved in the local community and its activities. He served on many boards including the First National Bank of Zanesville, Genesis Good Samaritan and Bethesda Hospitals, United Way, Chamber of Commerce, National Gas and Oil, Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of America, Muskingum Area Technical College Foundation, Muskingum Livestock, Muskingum College, and Goodwill. He also chaired the Heart Fund Drive and Cancer Fund and was a founding member of Muskingum County Community Foundation. He was the recipient of many local, state and national honors including The Bob and Delores Hope Award, Jaycees’ President Award, Goodwill Chairman’s Award, United Way’s National Alexis de Tocqueville Society Award and The Community Foundation Dick Johnson Civic Leadership Award presented to local individuals who stand for philanthropic leadership in the community. Dick’s belief was that the community had been good to him and the one way he could give something back to the community was by supporting local entities, not only financially, but with time and leadership. Dick is survived by his wife of 61 years: Jane Johnson of Nokomis, FL; one daughter: Marjorie Fairall of Zanesville; one son: Chase & Jane Johnson of Zanesville; three granddaughters: Ashley & Scott Kennedy, Jenna and Caroline Johnson; two great grandchildren: Kenison & Kyson Kennedy; one brother: Bradley & Sandra Johnson of Zanesville; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. A Memorial Service to celebrate Dick’s life will be held 7:00 PM, Thrusday, October 25, 2012 at North Terrace Church of Christ, 1569 Bowers Lane, Zanesville with Pastor Dean Cole officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM till time of service. Private burial services will take place in Zanesville Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to The Muskingum County Animal Shelter Society, 1430 Newark Road, Zanesville, Ohio or the Wilds, 14000 International Road, Cumberland, Ohio 43732 in Dick’s memory. The Hillis & Hardwick Funeral Home is assisting the Johnson Family with arrangements. To send a personal condolence note please visit the link at the top of this page or they may be sent to P.O. Box 1448, Zanesville,Ohio 43702-1448

Richard "Dick" Johnson

May 14, 1928 - October 4, 2012