Obituary of Haywood M. Johnson

Haywood M. Johnson, age 78, passed away on Wednesday, September 6, 2017, at his home with his loving family at his side. In accordance with Haywood’s wishes, cremation has taken place.

Haywood was born May 6, 1939, to the late Mr. Essel and Susie Johnson in Kinlock, Missouri. He graduated from Kinlock High School with the class of 1957 and would later attend the University of Michigan, Flint. Haywood married his childhood sweetheart Dorleen Jones on April 13, 1958, in St. Louis, Missouri and relocated to Flint, Michigan in 1964. They were blessed with five children. Haywood received the respect of many within the community during his time with the Genesee County Children’s Facility where he mentored young boys and men. As a determined man to provide for his family, he also worked for General Motors Service Parts for 35 years where he was a member of Local 659. As an intellectual, Haywood spent countless hours reading and could elaborate extensively on any subject matter. He enjoyed spending time with his family, working in his yard, and was an avid boxing fan.

Left to cherish his memory is his devoted wife of 59 years, Dorleen, four daughters: Darleen Osborn, Fuzzy Sanders, DeVelle (Semaj) Johnson, and Venus (Richard) Allen; 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren; 3 brothers and 6 sisters; brother-in-law Earl Jones; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Haywood was preceded in death by his parents, son Vance (Haywood) Johnson, brother Robert Johnson, sister Clara Peebles, and son-in-law Samuel Sanders.

Haywood’s wife would like to extend her sincere gratitude to their loving and dedicated children, grandchildren, and Haywood’s sisters and brothers for their love and care.