Tommy Lee Johnson, Jr.'s Obituary
Tommy Lee Johnson, Jr. was born October 24, 1961, in Chattanooga Tennessee to parents Wilma Gocher Johnson and Tommy Johnson, Sr. Tommy is known by several names. As a child, family called him Jr. or Tommy Jr., friends started calling him Red and as an adult his sisters and brother started calling him Tom.
Tommy Jr. was a very happy, fun-loving child who made friends easily while growing up in Wheeler Homes, attending Piney Woods Elementary, East Lake Elementary, East Lake Junior High and Howard High Schools. His favorite partner in fun and best friend was his only brother Tracy – the two were a year apart in school and inseparable.
After graduating in 1980 from Howard High School, he worked in food services first in Chattanooga and then in Atlanta, Georgia. His co-workers experienced what his family and friends experienced – a person who was kind, considerate, respectful and compassionate to others. After returning to Chattanooga, he met Sarah who would become his wife.
Tom was a beautiful soul who took his last breath on February 7, 2026. He was preceded in death by his wife Sarah Ford Johnson; his father Tommy Johnson, Sr.; his beloved brother and best friend Tracy Johnson; his grandparents: Annie and Fred Gocher, Gladys Johnson Harris and Bradley Johnson; aunts, uncles and several cousins.
Tom is survived by his son Tavarris (Sabrina) McMath; grandchildren: Elizabeth, Keli and Anna McMath; his mother Wilma Gocher Johnson Elsberry; sisters: Wanda Gocher-Johnson, Angela Johnson Hicks and Neva Johnson Stinson; his aunt Juliaette Johnson Newby; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Tommy will be remembered for his kindness and affection for others; “Baby Girl” was his favorite term of endearment for the women in his life. RIP Tommy Jr.
Tommy will lie-in-state on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home.
What’s your fondest memory of Tommy?
What’s a lesson you learned from Tommy?
Share a story where Tommy's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Tommy you’ll never forget.
How did Tommy make you smile?