Henry Johnson

Henry Johnson, age 67, of Whittier, formerly of Lantana, FL, passed away Friday, November 8, 2013. Mr. Johnson was born December 11, 1945 in Waterbury, Conn. He is the son of the late Paul Joseph and the late Madeline Ursula (Dunne) Johnson. He married Donna Jean Briggs. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Marjorie Sammis and a brother, Paul Johnson, Jr. The former mayor of Lantana, Fla, Henry owned and operated Century Appliance Service in Waynesville, NC. Henry was a veteran of the US Army, he served three tours with the Big Red One, the First Infantry Division, the largest operation of the Vietnam War. During his service, he received three bronze stars, three air medals, three army commendations, one Vietnam Service Medal, one Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, One National Defense Service Medal and one Army Good Conduct medal. Henry is survived by his wife of 42 years: Donna Jean (Briggs) Johnson, and nine children; sons, Steve Magestro of Alaska, Tim Magestro of California; Tom Magestro of Sylva, and Chuckie Magestro of Wisconsin; daughters, Debbie Lickert of Waynesville, Julie Conn of Whittier, Gina Koji of Florida, Cindy Lewis of Webster, and Mandy Burgis of Sylva; one sister, Paula Wilson of Franklin; and 49 grandchildren. Henry was a loving, caring husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. He enjoyed hunting, and coaching baseball and football. His family saw him as their rock and the BEST thing that had ever happened to their family. A memorial service is planned for 7:30 pm on Wednesday, November 13, 2013 in the chapel of Appalachian Funeral Services in Sylva, with Rev. Steven Magestro officiating, with military honors conducted by American Legion Post 108. The family will receive friends from 5:30 until 7:30 prior to the service. . .