AG “Buddy” Johnson, of Plantation, Fla., graduated to Heaven peacefully on April 13, 2024, after a short bout with Lewy Body Syndrome. Born on October 20, 1947, Buddy lived a life filled with love, laughter, and profound passion for the ministry. He was known for his quick wit, wisdom, and gift for storytelling which touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Buddy was deeply devoted to his family and close circle of friends.
Professionally, Buddy started his career in the Air Force after finishing school at The Citadel Military College of South Carolina where he graduated in 1969. He continued his dedication to the Bulldogs often traveling to Charleston, South Carolina to attend football games and visit with friends and family.
Buddy’s professional career continued over twenty-five years as a banker and leadership consultant. But he changed course mid-life and took a calling to ministry where he served in missions, church finance, and prison ministry, retiring from The Local Church as CFO in 2023. His colleagues remember him as a visionary and mentor, leaving a legacy of excellence and integrity.
Buddy discovered a true passion for sharing God’s word through unique volunteer opportunities as a chaplain. He was a chaplain for the 28th Georgia Regiment and Sumter Flying Artillery. He performed many weddings for friends and family, even one wearing complete historical regalia. He started a Bikers Ministry complete with his own Harley. Buddy served as chaplain for Hollywood Fire and Rescue and The Everglades Correctional Institute.
Buddy will be dearly missed by his devoted wife, Kim Blakeslee Johnson, as well as by his children Mary Kay Johnson Deese (Andrew Deese) of South Carolina, Andrew Johnson (Lisa Johnson) of Virginia, Abbey Shenk Furlong (Devin Furlong) of Florida, Amanda Shenk Herndon of Texas. His twelve grandchildren will remember him as the king of puns and for his contagious laugh.
Though his physical presence is no longer with us, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. The values of Faith, Family, and Country carry on through us. The words spoken at his own father’s funeral (Al Johnson, Sr.) were true of Buddy as well:
“All that was good in him, we take into ourselves so that through us, he lives.”
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Prison Ministry of The Local Church in Davie, Florida.