December 16, 2025, 61, Mount Olive – David Earl Johnson, 61, went home to be with his Lord on Tuesday evening at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center, surrounded by the love of his family. David, as he was affectionately known to many, was born in Johnston County on February 7, 1964, to the late Earl Johnson and Brenda Johnson.
A dedicated public servant, David spent 10 years serving as a paramedic, answering the call to help others in their most critical moments. He proudly served with Johnston County Emergency Services, Clayton Rescue, and Johnston Ambulance Service, where his compassion, steady presence, and commitment to service made a meaningful difference in countless lives. Helping others was not just his profession—it was his calling. In addition, David worked for more than 20 years as a field technician for Transformer Maintenance & Service, bringing the same dedication, skill, and reliability to his work in the energy industry.
Family meant everything to David. He will be lovingly remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, and a cherished grandparent. His children and grandchildren were truly his pride and joy, and he delighted in every moment spent with them—always ready to support, encourage, and celebrate their lives.
Outside of his service to others, David was rarely one to sit still. He could most often be found working outside—tinkering on projects, fixing whatever needed attention, or mowing the grass—taking pride in caring for his home and lending a helping hand whenever needed. These simple moments brought him great joy and reflected his strong work ethic and humble spirit.
The family will receive friends at their home, 114 East Main Street, Faison, North Carolina 28341, on Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m. A service to celebrate David’s life will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Faison Cemetery, located at 540 East Mary and Elias Street, Faison, North Carolina 28341, with Michael Hall and Johnny Bell officiating.
David is survived by his devoted wife of 22 years, Cathy “Busy” Johnson; his sons, Nathan Johnson and his wife, Meredith Johnson, and Andy Johnson and his wife, Brady Johnson; his stepchildren, Carlton “Lee” Kennedy and his wife, Kelly Kennedy, and Elizabeth “Blair” Kennedy; his grandchildren, Dillon Johnson and Davina Johnson; his step-grandchildren, Morgan “Paige” Cameron and her husband, Ricky Cameron, and Madison Kennedy and her significant other, Landon Harper; his beloved step-great-grandchild, John “Greyson” Smith; and his sister, Lori Johnson.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to friends, coworkers, and the medical staff for the love, prayers, and compassionate care shown during this time.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of David Johnson may be made to the John “Greyson” Smith Education Fund at State Employees’ Credit Union. The credit union can be reached at (910) 592-6103. When calling, reference the phone number tied the account 984 285 2048.
