John J.

Johnson, Dies at 74, Becoming a Literal “Die-hard” Basketball Fan

John J. Johnson, the president of Farmer’s Bank in Riverdale, died on Monday at the age

of 74, from what has appeared to be a heart attack, in Riverdale.

This die-hard basketball fan has been an all-conference basketball performer, who played

for Riverdale University. His love for the game reached the extent that he died while he was

avidly watching the first quarter of Monday night’s Riverdale High School basketball game;

against Geneva.

Mr. Johnson was born in Riverdale, the son of J. Johnson, who was a longtime

Minister of the First Presbyterian Church of Riverdale. Although he grew up in this religious

family, Mr. Johnson was surprisingly convicted, in 1944, for draft evasion, and served six

months in prison.

Afterwards, Mr. Johnson earned a MBA degree from Riverdale University in 1950. Ten

years later, he became a member of the Riverdale School Board for a whole decade. In 1970, Mr.

Johnson has then began his eight-year journey as a member of the Riverdale City Council.

During this period of time, Mr. Johnson was also elected as the president of the State Bankers’

Association, in 1977. This professional journey highlights his loyalty to Riverdale, his

hometown.

The only survivor from Mr. Johnson’s family is Mrs. Helen Johnson, his wife.

His funeral will be held on Thursday 11 a.m. at McGrew-Jones Funeral Home, 2121

Central Ave. in Riverdale, whereas the burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery. Memorials,

including contributions and flowers, may be made to a local heart association, to save others

from what Mr. Johnson has suffered. Even when he is gone, he is still giving.