Howard Johnson
June 26, 1952 ~ January 22, 2026
Howard Preston Johnson, 73, of Leicester, son of the late James P. Johnson and Annie Mae Burrell, passed into Heaven on Thursday, January 22, 2026. He has been the beloved husband to Jennifer Johnson for 50 wonderful years. He loved his family and life. He was employed by the City of Asheville Water Dept. for 17 years. He was a devoted volunteer fireman and EMT for Leicester Fire Department in the 1970s and 1980s.
He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Johnson, brother-in-law, Chris Wells; mother-in-law, Margaret Wells; sisters, Bobbie Jean Johnson and Jesse Palumbo, of Maryland; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Paulette Drury, and brothers, Lewis Johnson and George Johnson.
The memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 30, at Brick Church, Leicester. Private burial will take place in the church cemetery.
Services
Funeral Home Assisting The Family:
Groce Funeral Home - Patton Ave.
1401 Patton Ave.
Asheville, NC 28806
(828)252-3535
http://grocefuneralhome.com
Asheville Butterfly Trail





Jennifer, sorry to hear of Howard’s passing. I have not seen you all in many years but I remember the times of you working on the triumph. May God comfort you during this time.
Thoughts and prayers! Much love to you and your family !🙏❤️
Jennifer, I remember you both with great fondness from our times together at COA. I was so sad to hear the news about Howard. I am sending you a big hug with this message.
Jennifer, I am very sorry to hear of Howard’s passing. Sending lots of thoughts and prayers your way
Jennifer. I’m so sorry. About Howard. He was a nice guy Shared high school memories one day before he retired
Jennifer, Larry and I were so very sorry to hear of your loss. Our love and prayers are with each of you.
Jennifer so sorry for your loss. He was a great man and an very good friend.
Jennifer I enjoyed getting to know Howard.He loved you very much and often talked about how good you were to help him.You did a great job supporting him and always being there for him.I am sorry for your loss.He will be missed.
Jennifer, I just learned about Uncle Howard’s passing. I am so sorry and would have been there if I had known. You and all the family are in our prayers.
Jennifer I just heard of Howard’s passing.
If I had known I would’ve been there. My husband Randy passed away in October. I will be praying for you