Ralph E Johnson

Ralph E. Johnson, 89, of Indianapolis, entered the arms of Jesus on August 21, 2020. He was born in Evanston, IL, on August 13, 1931, son of Alfred L and Ella (Pearson) Johnson.

Ralph was a 1949 graduate of Gage Park High School in Chicago, IL.  He received his MBA from Northwestern University.  He worked for Eli Lilly and Co. before retiring in 1988.

At an early age, Ralph asked Jesus to be his Savior and faithfully served Him the rest of his life.  He served as a Sunday school teacher for several years, served as a Deacon for 20 years, and sang in the church choir. He enjoyed making visits for the church for as long as he was able. He was also an active board member with Child Evangelism Fellowship.

One of the many qualities Ralph possessed was a very disciplined life, such as daily morning devotions and prayer.  He insisted tasks be done correctly. Ralph was a wise, loving family man and role model, expressing his warm, loving, and hospitable heart.

When Ralph was a young boy, he experienced a leg injury which caused him to be laid up for a while.  The Chicago newspaper published a write up about his injury, and Ralph received more than 30,000 postcards from people around the world.  He received a very special gift which was a signed New Testament from Mrs. R.A. Torrey with John 3:16 highlighted.

In addition to his parents, Ralph was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth Johnson; and 2 sisters, June Moss and Shirlee Pistano.

Survivors include his devoted wife of 62 years, Virginia “Jinney” (Brown) Johnson; children, Linda E. (Rev. Jon) VanderWier, Jeffrey A. (Barbara) Johnson and Michael C. (Paula) Johnson; 11 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren and one on the way.

Family and friends will gather on Monday, August 24 at 11 am in Colonial Hills Baptist Church, where Ralph was a member. 

The funeral service will begin at 2 pm.

Burial will follow in Union Chapel Cemetery.

In memory of Ralph, contributions may be directed to Child Evangelism Fellowship.

Arrangements and care entrusted to Bussell Family Funerals, Carmel-Westfield.

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