Gene R. Johnson, Sr., 81, of Manteo passed away on Friday, July 13, 2018, at home surrounded by his family.

In his youth, Gene became a member of the Baptist faith. He attended Central High School, Elizabeth City, where he earned lasting acclaim on the football field.

Gene joined the United States Coast Guard where he proudly served his country for 22 years retiring as a Senior Chief telecommunications technician. Over the years, Gene received much love and support from his Coast Guard family.

An energetic sports enthusiast, Gene served his community as a coach for adult softball as well as youth football, basketball and baseball leagues. He was well known (notorious) for cheering from the sidelines. Throughout his life, he had a great passion for music and dance.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Clifton and Verla Johnson; brother, Norman Johnson; and sister, Kitty Sawyer and husband Carl.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Judy Johnson; children, Gene Johnson, Jr. and wife Joanne, Angela Blake and husband Bob, Pamela Wilm and husband Frank, and Norman Johnson and wife Dee; seven grandchildren, Jason, Erin, Shea, Morgan, Zachary, Ashley, and Austin; five great-grandchildren, Derek, Devon, Makayla, Tiffany and Shai; and two brothers, Ted Johnson and wife Marcie and Mayhue Johnson and wife Judy; along with many nieces, nephews, friends and relatives.

A funeral will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, July 16, at Twiford Colony Chapel. Burial with military honors will follow at Roanoke Island Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations in Gene’s name be made to the youth athletic league of your choice.

Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at www.TwifordFH.com.