EJ Johnson, 81, of Statesville, N.C., passed away on Friday, May 16, 2025, at his residence.

EJ was born June 6, 1943, in Alexander County, N.C., and was the son of the late Edgar James Johnson and Ora Nance Johnson. He attended Statesville City Schools, and on December 15, 1973, he married Karen “FeFe” Millsaps Johnson. EJ loved driving trucks and drove for C&C Trucking and Red Dirt Road Trucking for over 40 years. EJ loved NASCAR racing, golf, music, dancing, and spending time with his family. EJ will always be remembered for his radiant personality, passion for life, and the deep love he had for his wife and family.

In addition to his wife of 51 years, he is survived by six children, Michelle J. Roberts (Josh) of Maiden, N.C., Gina J. Ward (Clinton) of Statesville, N.C., TJ Johnson (Brandy) of Lexington, N.C., Scott Johnson of Statesville, Angela Killian (Jim) of Greenville, S.C., and Robin Yount of Sherrills Ford, N.C.; 15 grandchildren, Carson Roberts, Claire Roberts, Catherine Roberts, Bailey Rae Ward, Connor Jake Ward, Annagrae Ward, JJ Bristow, Bryson Sykes, Kayla Smith, Derrick Smit, Tanner Killian, Lauren Killian, Summer Vogel, Matthew Pharr, and Zachary Yount; seven great-grandchildren; one brother, Wayne Johnson (Diane) of State Road, N.C.; and one sister, Karon J. Ball of Statesville.

He was preceded in death by brothers, James Johnson, Dale Johnson, Carol Johnson, Darol Johnson, Doug Barnette, David Barnette, and Don Barnette; and sister, Gwyne Nauert.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Troutman Funeral Home with Rev. Curtis White officiating. Burial will follow in the Rocky Hill Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1 until 2:30 p.m. at Troutman Funeral Home.

Troutman Funeral Home is serving the Johnson family.