David "Poppa" Johnson, age 70, passed away on June 26, 2026. He was in Indiana for work at the time of his passing, serving as a Certified Welding Inspector for Performance Contractors, a career he genuinely enjoyed. He took great pride in his profession and loved his coworkers, considering each of them dear friends. His strong work ethic and genuine kindness earned him the respect and friendship of everyone who knew him.

A graduate of Satsuma High School in Alabama, David proudly played the trombone in the school band. He had a lifelong love for the Smoky Mountains, found peace in gospel music, and nothing mattered more to him than his family.  They were his pride, his purpose and his greatest blessing.

David was a faithful member of Leakesville Assembly of God, where his faith was an important part of his life. Affectionately known as "Poppa," he will be remembered for his warm heart and the love he shared with everyone around him. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy of kindness and friendship will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

He is preceded in death by parents, Walter E. and Olga Loggins Johnson; parents-in-law, Leonard and Marilyn Dearman; brother-in-law, Kent Dearman; beloved German Shephard dog, Trump Johnson.   

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 29 years, Nina Dearman Johnson; children, Ryan D. (Jessica) Johnson, Aaron W. (Katie) Johnson, Marissa J. (Wayne) Huckabee, Keleah R. (Heath) Hayford, and Rachel L. Lewis; grandchildren, Jorden R. “Bugg” Hayford, Steven T. Hayford, John Ray Hayford, Chase M. "Monkey" (Kassie Ouzts) Lewis, Shevy (Kaden) Blackston, Cody L. (Alexis) Johnson, A. Tanner Johnson, Delainey M. Johnson, Dalton W. Johnson, Carly E. “Lou-Lou” Johnson, Lane Johnson, and Evan Huckabee; great grandchildren, Emilee “Love bug” Johnson, Huxlee B. Johnson, and Holden M. “Doodle” Lewis; siblings Michael W. (Virginia) Johnson, Richard T. (Donna) Johnson, and Jenifer E. (Robert) Dennis; siblings-in-law, Gail (Kelly) Williams, and Keith (Pam) Dearman; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends including a dear friend and coworker, Stephen “Cheese” and Kristy Davis. .       

The Visitation will be Thursday, July 2, 2026 from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM at Leakesville Assembly of God. The Funeral Service will begin at 2:00 PM in the church sanctuary with Bro. Bruce Walley and Bro. Brandon Davis officiating. Burial will follow in Clark Chapel cemetery. Pallbearers include Chase Lewis, Campbell Partridge, John Ray Hayford, Tanner Johnson, Dalton Johnson, and Cody Johnson.

Moments Funeral Home, locally owned and operated, is honored to be in charge of arrangements.