William Henry Johnson

William Henry Johnson, age 82, of Havre de Grace, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 11, 2025. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Bill was a proud veteran, loving husband, devoted father, and cherished grandfather and great-grandfather.

Bill served his country honorably in the United States Army for 21 years, achieving the rank of Sergeant. Following his military service, he continued his commitment to public service as a lieutenant with the Havre de Grace Police Department, where he served the community for 25 years. He was also a proud member of Weedon Elliott VFW Post 8126.

He was married to his beloved wife, Josephine Johnson, for 61 wonderful years. Bill was a man who deeply loved his family, always placing them above everything else. He especially adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bill was the pillar of his family and in his community; well-known and respected from his time served in the Havre de Grace police department. He was a role model, a mentor and a positive influence providing leadership and guidance to so many. He actively participated in community events, organizations, and initiatives to the betterment of Havre de Grace. Bill was proud to serve on the Street and Traffic Safety Committee, the HdG Independence Day Celebration Committee, and the Havre de Grace Main Street. As a patrol commander, he assisted with legislative input on the very controversial Taxi Ordinance, and in 2006 provided input on the development of an Emergency Operations Plan for the City of Havre de Grace. A bit of a local legend, he was known as a tough cop who would “write his own mother a ticket.” The stories abound, from controlling Independence Day Parade squatters to handling carnival chaos to tiger wrangling! But he was just as well known for his warmth and his engaging personality.

With that ever-present smile, he made everyone feel welcome with his friendly conversation. His laugh was infectious, and you couldn’t help but join in whenever he shared his stories. His love of Western movies and steamed crabs was unparalleled, as was his obsession for paying his bills on time! Above all, Bill was devoted to his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering support. He especially adored the babies; you would be hard pressed to find a picture of him without a grandchild or great grandchild in his arms. A great friend, colleague, and family man, Bill was a man of superior integrity who will be remembered for his generosity, caring nature, and fierce love of family. He will be greatly missed.

Bill was preceded in death by Ethel B. Thompson (mother); his brothers Otis Johnson, and Frank Johnson; his sister Elsie Thompson Johnson; and his great-grandchild Mason Goff.

He is survived by his children Eyvon Johnson (son) and wife, Bambi Johnson, and Belinda Mier (daughter) and partner John Atkinson; his grandchildren Krystal Mier, Joshua Penn; his step grandchildren Don Goff, Kristen Mitchell, and Alexandra Lurz; and his great-grandchildren: Kameron DeJesus, Christopher DeJesus, Karleigh Giuliano, Gabriella Tripoli, Khalil Penn, Taylor Goff, Francesca Goff, Cooper Goff, Korie Mitchell, Joey Mitchell, Macallan Mitchell, Hunter Lurz, Wesley Lurz, Jordan Lurz, and Benjamin Lurz.

He is also survived by his sisters Barbara Johnson and Clara Johnson, and his brother Roderick Thompson along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made “in memory of Lt. Bill Johnson of the Havre de Grace Police Department” to: Special Olympics Maryland at SOMD.org and click the donate button OR The Boys and Girls Clubs of Harford and Cecil Counties bgcharfordcecil.org and click the donate button.

William Henry Johnson will be remembered for his courage, dedication, warmth, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy of service and love lives on through all who knew and loved him.