OCALA, FL – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lieutenant Colonel Edward H. Johnson, who died peacefully at his home in Ocala, Florida, on September 5, 2025.
Born on October 2nd, 1935 to Emily and Edward he was raised in Westwood, Massachusetts, and spent many wonderful summers at Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire fishing and exploring nature. Edward was 89 years old at the time of his passing.
Lt. Col. Johnson (Rattler 3) dedicated his career to distinguished service in the United States Army. An Army ROTC graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and a Master’s degree in History from FSU. He served as a skilled pilot of both helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. Throughout his military career, he demonstrated unwavering commitment to duty, honor, and service, earning numerous prestigious awards. He was awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Stars with Oakleaf Clusters, a Meritorious Service Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry and dozens of Distinguished Flying Cross for heroic actions. His undaunting courage under fire permitted the rescue of two downed aviators because he refused to leave them behind. Flying at minimum altitude through ground fog and smoke from flares, he used his helicopter’s searchlight to illuminate suspected bits of wreckage and discovered the downed ship and its survivors. He never worried about hi
mself, he always put his men first even when he was a firefly in Chu Lai during an instance of personal risk and his aircraft sustaining six hits from hostile fire. He maintained his position and did not leave until he safely evacuated the casualties. His later service included duty as a member of the United States Military Assistance Command to Thailand while stationed in Bangkok and was awarded the rare Royal Thai Army Airborne Wings. People in combat say “You’ve been to the well together” and it creates a bond that transcends blood which only people who were so close to death could experience. His leadership and dedication touched the lives of countless servicemen and women who served under his command and remained his friends for life.
Edward’s commitment to service continued well beyond his military career. As an electronics industry executive at the Microwave Journal, he brought his leadership skills and understanding of defense to the business world while maintaining his dedication to community service.
He was honored by the March of Dimes for his dedicated service in Marion County. He served as a Trustee for Munroe Regional Medical Center, where he later became Chairman of the Board of Directors, and is honored with the Lt. Col. and Mrs. Edward H. Johnson Heart Center Lobby at Munroe Regional Hospital in recognition of his outstanding contributions. He was also actively involved with the Marion County Humane Society, was a member of the CF Board of Directors, and on the Appleton Museum of Arts Advisory Council.
A firm believer in education for all, Edward made significant contributions to the College of Central Florida, where he served as Chair of both the Budget and Finance Committee and the Investment Committee. His commitment to education reflected his belief that learning and opportunity should be accessible to everyone.
He was a beloved husband who cherished his beautiful “Lois” (Ramsay) Johnson who stole his heart when he was 16 years old and predeceased him last year. As a father he made weekly room inspections with a smile and gentle voice when his children were young, and then sang “Old Man River” because he knew it brought these children joy when they became adults. He loved to eat out and made friends everywhere he went, celebrating each moment that life handed him. He leaves behind children from his former spouse Gretchen (Myers) Johnson; his daughter Jennifer Johnson-Corwin of Westfield and his grandchildren, Connor and Ciara, who are heartbroken by his passing. His son Edward of Longmeadow, and his children Madelyn and TJ Johnson and his daughter, Elizabeth Ware of Wilbraham. His family was the center of his world, and his belief in the importance of love, service, wisdom, and strength will continue through them.
Military honors will be provided. He will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery. He served his country with honor and his family with devotion.
“A life well lived in service to others.”
