Henry Allen Johnson, 82, of Statesville, N.C., a beloved member of his community and family, passed away on January 9, 2026, at the Gordon Hospice House, following a period of declining health. Born on February 25, 1943, in Iredell County, N.C., Henry lived a life rich in experience, love, and service.

Henry was very proud to be a veteran of the United States Navy. Henry served his country with honor before embarking on a successful career as a machinist at Clark Equipment/Dana Corporation. His dedication to his work was paralleled only by his devotion to his wife and various hobbies. An accomplished handyman, Henry had a knack for fixing anything and was known for his remarkable ability to restore old cars. Among his cherished projects was his favorite—a red and white ’55 Chevy Bel Air, along with a convertible Volkswagen bug that ultimately found its home in a Volkswagen Museum in Brazil.

Henry was not just a craftsman but also an innovator; he built his own home, one of the first in the area to feature solar panels, and designed it in a distinctive octagonal shape. Anyone who has traveled down Troutman Farm Road will recognize this house. Henry enjoyed fishing and spending time with his dogs. He often found joy in the music of George Jones and would often tell anyone who would listen that “The World Needs a Melody” was the prettiest song ever recorded.

An integral part of Henry’s journey was finding his one true love. He was a perpetual bachelor until he met that person, Faye Crain Johnson. They married in 1999 in Las Vegas, forever changing the course of Henry’s life as he embraced the role of devoted husband and father to his “instant” family.

A man of deep faith, Henry was of the Methodist tradition. He will be remembered by many for the metal crosses he would carry in his pockets and hand out to whomever he encountered. He was fond of greeting his grandchildren with the saying, “How do you do?” He would say it in a funny voice and exaggerated handshake and is something they have carried on. Those closest to him now imagine him at the pearly gates greeting others with this familiar phrase.

Henry is survived by his wife Faye; two sons, Jim Osborne (Patti) of Statesville, N.C., and Rob Osborne (Karen) of Statesville, N.C., as well as a daughter, Susan Osborne Dietrich (Brian) of Cornelius, N.C., along with twelve grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, all of whom helped enrich his life. Talk about your instant families! He also shared a special bond with his cousin, Bucky Elliott, who was like a brother to him. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Johnson.

Henry Johnson leaves behind a legacy defined by love, craftsmanship, and unwavering commitment to his wife. He will be dearly missed by his loved ones, who will remember him for his fiery spirit and the times they were able to spend together.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held on January 19, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Iredell Memorial Gardens, 2304 Shelton Avenue, Statesville, N.C., where family and friends can gather to honor and celebrate Henry’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Nicholson Funeral Home is honored to serve the Johnson family.