Arvel Leroy Johnson, Sr

Arvel Leroy Johnson, Sr.
February 4, 1938 - November 3, 2026

In Loving Memory of a Life of Service, Family, and Legacy

Arvel Leroy Johnson, Sr., 88, of East New Market, Maryland, peacefully departed this life on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at his home. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, proud United States Army Veteran, community advocate, and family historian, Arvel lived a life defined by service, perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and an enduring commitment to preserving the history and heritage of his family and community.

Born on February 4, 1938, Arvel was the son of the late Leander Young and Mable Johnson. He received his early education in the public schools of Dorchester County and graduated from Mace’s Lane High School in 1958. Following graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army, beginning a distinguished military career that would span two decades.

Arvel proudly served his country for 20 years, including assignments in Germany, Thailand, and two tours of duty in Vietnam. Throughout his military career, he demonstrated dedication, discipline, and leadership, earning numerous medals, citations, and commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm. He attained the rank of Sergeant First Class (E-7) before honorably retiring from the United States Army.

Following his military retirement, Arvel continued his strong work ethic and commitment to public service through a diverse professional career. He worked in the transportation industry, home and business security, and the railroad industry, serving as both a conductor and engineer. He later joined the State of Maryland as a correctional officer, a position he held until his retirement.

Beyond his military and professional accomplishments, Arvel believed deeply in civic responsibility and community involvement. He served as an Honorary Deputy Sheriff for Wicomico County and volunteered as an arbitrator for consumer affairs under the Maryland Attorney General's Office. He also served as a first aid instructor and AIDS awareness coordinator and was a candidate for Judge of the Orphans' Court.

His commitment to public service extended through his involvement with numerous civic and community organizations, including the NAACP, the Harriet Tubman Association, the Dorchester County School Utilization Committee, and Local 3478 of the AFL-CIO. Through these activities, Arvel sought to strengthen his community, advocate for others, and contribute to the betterment of the place he called home.

One of Arvel' s greatest passions was his dedication to African American history, particularly the preservation of local history and the stories of those whose contributions might otherwise be forgotten. He worked alongside the Chipman Foundation in efforts to locate, identify, and restore African American gravesites throughout Dorchester and Wicomico counties. This work reflected his profound respect for those who came before him and his belief that every life and every story deserved to be remembered.

That same devotion to history was especially evident in his commitment to preserving his own family's heritage. A dedicated family historian and genealogist, Arvel spent countless hours researching family records, tracing ancestral connections, documenting relationships, and carefully compiling the family tree. He understood that knowing where one comes from provides a foundation for understanding who one is. Through his research, he sought to ensure that future generations would have a lasting connection to their ancestors, their roots, and the experiences that shaped their family.

Above all, Arvel valued family. He married the love of his life, Barbara Johnson, and together they shared 43 years of marriage, building a home and raising a family grounded in love, commitment, and shared experiences. Their marriage remained a treasured part of his life and personal story.

Outside of his professional and community responsibilities, Arvel enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He appreciated country music, enjoyed reading, and possessed an enduring curiosity about the world around him. A lifelong learner, he was always eager to discover something new, explore a subject more deeply, or share knowledge with others. His love of learning was matched by his appreciation for meaningful conversation, family connections, and the importance of remembering the past.

In addition to his parents, Arvel was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Johnson; his son, Leroy Todd; and his brother, Eddie Johnson.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving children, Arvel Johnson, Jr., of Baltimore, Maryland; Andre Todd (Gloria), of Easton, Maryland; and Bonnie Edwards, of Church Creek, Maryland.

He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, including but not limited to Alexis Johnson, Ashley Sydnor, Joshua Wade, Leroy Williams, LeQuia Hooper, and Valnza Reed.

Arvel is further survived by his brother, Cortez Johnson (Sylvia), of Hurlock, Maryland; his sisters, Trudy Penn (Lucien), of Suffolk, Virginia, and Roberta Ennals, of Georgia; his special nephews, Rodney Warrington and Tyren Johnson; his special cousins, Cindy Johnson and Blanche Wright; and a host of other beloved relatives, extended family members, and friends.

Arvel Leroy Johnson, Sr., will be remembered as a man who served his country with honor, approached his responsibilities with determination, and believed in the importance of giving back to his community. He was a man of many interests, a lifelong student of history, and a devoted guardian of his family's heritage.

His legacy extends beyond the medals he earned, the positions he held, and the organizations he served. It lives in the family he loved, the history he preserved, the knowledge he shared, and the countless lives he touched throughout his 88 years.

Although his earthly journey has come to an end, the stories he documented, the family connections he strengthened, and the example he set will continue to inspire generations to come.

His life was a testament to service. His passion was the preservation of history. His greatest legacy is the family and heritage he leaves behind.