Fallen Warriors

Rick Johnson - Class Of 1968

Rick (Rockitj) Johnson, age 70, passed unexpectedly on Sunday, February 28, 2021. Rick was a lifelong Hampton resident and a proud Virginian. He attended Kecoughtan High School but raised Crabbers. His proudest professional achievement was to be a civil "servant" for his entire career, first with the cities of Hampton and Newport News and eventually for the Department of the Navy. Commitment to serving his community was a trait he passed down to his children and he involved them at an early age in giving back to their village. He continued his passion by volunteering with his beloved Hampton Wythe Little League for many years. Rick had many interests but primarily was devoted to music and sports. He was a happy percussionist and had a very eclectic taste in music. He was a long suffering fan of the Washington Redskins and true fan of the Atlanta Braves. The UVA basketball teams gave him great joy but his happiest moments were on the sidelines of his children's games. He had a passion for history and regaled everyone with insider stories of historical figures.

Rick is survived by his wife of 41 years, Joan, and his five boys: Kellyn (Nikki), Alan (Cyndi), Corey (Stephanie), Mickey and Graham. His sister, Karen Pittsley (Mike) and six grandchildren, Christian, Ryan, Kyleigh, Arihanna, Charlotte and Aiden. He will be also missed by his extended family and close friends.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Hampton Wythe Little League or to Hampton High School Baseball. Details on payment location available at the funeral home.

There will be a small celebration for family and close friends on Saturday, March 6, 2021 at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home at 1:00 pm followed by a reception at Marker 20 from 2-4. Due to Covid 19 restrictions there are limitations on attendance but the celebration will be livestreamed on the funeral home Facebook page.

Published in Daily Press on Mar. 3, 2021.



 
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03/13/21 01:40 PM #1    

Bonnie Bridger (Mittelmaier) (1969)

Although I was aware that Rick was struggling with health issues, I still was very surprised to learn of his passing.  He did attend our KHS Reunions when he was able and I believe he enjoyed them immensly as did anyone of his many friends who enjoyed seeing him and catching up.  It's going to be so hard to believe he has gone on into the arms of Heaven, prayers for his family and all of his friends.  

RIP Warrior,

Bonnie Bridger Mittelmaier '69


03/18/21 07:32 PM #2    

Michael Annett (1969)

I saw the obit ... my friend Rick ... was much more than that ...

1)Intelligent: #1 music & music history, #2 history... "To see as far back as possible ... and as far into the future as "we can imagine"! ... and... The people he cared about!

2) Bold and boisterous with a guttural laugh!

3)Funny with a quick wit and ... a "gotcha" when he could!

4)Athletic in his youth ... I played tennis with him ... He made you "work hard" to beat "The Rocket"

5) He could "sing and harmonize" his butt off ... but never in the school chorus ... ask Walter Redmond

6) He Played the drums with Vigor and ... the beat and counter beat were always ... on time ... but never in the school band ... ask Dickie Morrison

7) A master of "playing cards" ... Bridge, Poker or Spades/Hearts ... just ask Bill Wampler, Glen Simpson or Chuck Echols.

8) Met a girl named Joan and they built a temple of 5 boys Kellyn, Allen, Corey, Mickey and Graham!

My friend Rick was many more things than that!

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