Gregory Johnson

Gregory E.Johnson

"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die." — Thomas Campbell

Gregory E. Johnson was born on February 10, 1963, to Moses and Slonia Johnson, in the vibrant city of Chicago. He was one of eight children blessed to this loving union.

From an early age, Gregory's light shined brightly. In the Chicago public school system, he quickly made a name for himself, whether it was knocking a baseball out of the park or skillfully dribbling a basketball around his opponents. His talent was undeniable, and his passion for sports earned him a scholarship, a testament to his dedication and drive.

To his family and friends, Gregory was affectionately known as "Gusto" — a name that perfectly captured his vibrant personality and infectious energy. He was a beloved babysitter, not just to his nieces and nephews, but to his great and great-great nieces and nephews as well. Every moment spent with him was filled with laughter, playful teasing, and unconditional love. The joy he shared with his family created memories that will be cherished for generations.

Gregory had a love for life's simple pleasures — whether he was cutting a rug to one of his favorite songs, belting out the lyrics like nobody was watching, or getting lost in the world of old Black movies, westerns, and documentaries. His passion for television and movies was unmatched, and he always enjoyed watching sports with his niece Regina or chatting through films with Pierre

Raised in a God-fearing family full of faith, Gregory knew Christ from a young age. Church was a cornerstone of his upbringing, often attending services nearly every day of the week alongside his siblings, led by the unwavering faith of their mother, Slonia, who has since gone on to glory.

Gregory carried that same quiet strength and unwavering faith throughout his life.

Gregory was preceded in death by his parents: Moses and Slonia; his brothers: Moses Jr. and Donnell; his sisters: Shirley and Annie; and his nephew Donald.

Though he has left this earthly home, his legacy continues through his loving family, his two sisters: Demetris and Denise; his brother, Izell; nine nieces and nephews: (Shanell, Serita, Theodore Jr., Tonyika, Regina, Virgil, Diana, Marquita, and Darius); nineteen great-nieces and nephews: (Mechalae, Pierre, Porsche, Dominique, Anna, Aaron, Serita, LaDaisha, Hiram, Virgil, André, Jeremiah, Millard Jr., Gregory, Autumn, Summer, Jordan, Journie, and Steven Jr.); fifteen great-great nieces and nephews: (LaMiya, Sincere, Aubrey, Edward Jr., Cali, KyAir, Makyla, La'Cayah, Chloe, Pierre Jr., Chance, Avion, Kaleiah, D'arius, and G'Yoni); a host of cousins, friends, and loved ones who were all touched by his light.

Gregory's laughter, his jokes, his rhythm, his big heart, and his undeniable "Gusto" will live on forever in the hearts of everyone who knew him. Today, we do not mourn a life lost — we celebrate a life well lived.

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