Harold R. Johnson, loved farming
Harold R. Johnson, 78, of Georgetown passed away peacefully, after a long illness Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021, on the family farm where he was also born Nov. 4, 1942. He was the youngest and last living of eight children of the late Ralph and Lula (Short) Johnson.
Upon graduation in 1960 from Georgetown High School, he began his dream of continuing the family farm. In addition to farming, he also was a deputy sheriff serving under Sheriff Eddie Conaway until such time as he was able to farm full time. Harold married Jeanie Challman Dec. 5, 1964. He worked hard farming with his two sons and took pride in the life they shared. They spent over 50 years growing corn, soybeans, peas, lima beans and raising chickens, hogs, bison and cows. He loved old westerns, and old country and gospel music.
Harold loved farming, but his greatest love was his family and friends. He enjoyed time spent together and visiting. Harold never passed up a piece of pie or cake and made sure all around him were well-fed.
Over the years he was involved in his community and several organizations, including Delaware Farm Bureau, serving for 10 years on the Indian River School District Board of Education, including being a past president of the board, Ruritan, Franklin Lodge #12, AF&AM, Independent Order of Odd Fellows #3, and serving on the board of Farm Family Insurance.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by all of his siblings, Milton Johnson, Pauline Johnson (infant), Helen Crawford, Ivah Hastings, Granville Johnson, Elwood Johnson and Betty Ann West.
Left to cherish his life are his wife of over 56 years, Jeanie Johnson; two sons, Keith Johnson and wife Sandi, and Shawn Johnson; a granddaughter, Lurana Johnson; three stepgrandchildren, Casey Minard (Dana), Natalie Minard and Shane Minard; and a host of nieces, nephews and their families.
The family would like to express a special thanks to his faithful caregivers Cherri Wells, Alexis Sherman and Andrew Burdan. With their loyal service, Harold was able to live his final years at home on the farm.
A visitation will take place in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 609 E. Market St., Georgetown, Saturday, Aug. 21, from 6 until 8 p.m. Funeral services will be held Sunday, Aug. 22, at 2 p.m., in the sanctuary of St. John’s United Methodist Church, Gravel Hill Road, Georgetown, with a visitation beginning at 1 p.m. Interment will follow at St. John’s UMC Cemetery.
As a gentleman and a farmer, he knew when to exit…in between the planting and the harvest seasons.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com
