Loyd Johnson

Loyd Johnson (Papaw), 90, passed away on May 14, 2026, in Villa Rica, Georgia. He was born November 9, 1935, in Olive Hill, Kentucky, the son of the late George Adam Johnson and the late Victoria Boggs Johnson.

Loyd's life was marked by his generous and easy-going nature, his hardworking spirit, and his remarkable ability to fix anything that came his way. He truly would and did give the shirt off his back to those in need throughout his life.

Loyd is survived by his loving wife, Lucille, (the true love of his life and companion for almost 70 years); his children, Vicky, Loyd Junior (Christine), Lynn (Kevin), and Adam; as well as 10 grandchildren, Zach, Aubrey, Mac, Jake, Corinne, Mallory, Noah, Emily, Missy and Mandy and 11 great-grandchildren, Grady, Delaney, Callahan, Keira, Beau, Duke, Dane, Arlo, Del, Violet and Addie; his sister Diane (Joe) Espisito.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Virginia Misel, Rhoda Cross, Harlan Johnson, and Shirley Dawson and his daughter, Sherry, who he adored.

Loyd's professional life was built around old-fashioned hard work. He began his career as a foreman at a brickyard in Niles, Ohio, demonstrating early on his leadership and dedication. He later served as a prison guard in Ohio and Illinois, a role he held for ten years, where he was respected for his fairness, courage and resilience. Loyd concluded his career as an over-the-road trucker, a job he excelled at for the last 25 years of his life. He took immense pride in his 3 million miles safe driving award, a testament to his skill and commitment on the road.

Outside of work, Loyd was passionate about his family. He enjoyed having his family around for any occasion. He loved his bluegrass music. In his later years he could often be found on the porch listening and singing along to his favorite songs. He also enjoyed fishing with all of his grandchildren, watching his grandson play basketball, and tending to his garden, where you could get some of the best tomatoes around.

Loyd Johnson's legacy is not just in the work he did or the hobbies he enjoyed, but in the generous spirit and resilience he displayed throughout his life, and his unwavering dedication to family. His Hillbilly wisdom and sayings like, “he’d rather climb a 100-foot tree and tell a lie, when staying on the ground and telling the truth would serve him better”…or “if you see me wrestling a bear, don’t help me, help the bear” will always be remembered and cherished.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who know him.

Family and friends may gather at noon on Tuesday May 19, 2026 at the Niles City Cemetery Chapel 1213 Niles-Cortland Road, Niles, Ohio 44446 for the funeral service. Burial will be in Niles City Cemetery.

Arrangements by Holeton-Yuhasz Funeral Home 126 West Park Avenue, Niles, Ohio 44446 330-652-4311.