Ronald Johnson Sr.

Ronnie, a devoted Catholic and lifelong resident of St. Bernard Parish passed away peacefully a month shy of his 80th birthday. In his final moments he was surrounded by his family with love, music, prayer, and laughter. He lived a full life defined by dedication, service, hard work, and an unwavering love for his family and friends. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, where he also had the honor of playing on the Navy baseball team. His love of baseball remained with him throughout his life starting with his brothers Dougie and Allan and continued on through his children and grandchildren who love to play baseball in the bank parking lot across the street, calling it bank ball. Ronnie and Gwen enjoyed many vacations throughout his life with family members and many of their friends. He also looked forward to summers on the beach watching the Blue Angels fly by and enjoyed identifying every plane included in the air shows. Following his military service, Ronnie built a successful career with Entergy, Amax, and Rain CII. He was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and loyalty, earning the respect of colleagues and friends throughout his life. He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Gwen Zeller Sanchez Johnson and their eight children. Ronnie was the proud father of Stephanie Johnson Noto (Robbie), Ronnie Johnson Jr., Julie Johnson (Deanna), and William “Billy” Johnson (Charmaine). He was also a devoted stepfather to Jesse Sanchez (Holly), Jennifer Sanchez Brugier (Warren Brugier IV), Jonathan Sanchez (Candice), and Jill Sanchez Hattala (Rob). He is also survived by his brothers Douglas Johnson (Maria) and Allan Johnson and as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Johnson and Gloria Bauer Johnson, and by his first wife of 22 years, Cheryl Ernst Johnson. Ronnie’s greatest joy was being a Paw Paw to his 16 cherished grandchildren: Taylor, Abby, Brady, Johanna, Lillian, Vivian, Ella, Adelynn, Hayden, Reese, Avery, Quinn, Rowen, Corbin, Nolan, and Bristol. He was immensely proud of each one of them and the times spent together making memories. He attended and cheered at every game, recital, school event, or special occasion. The memories shared will be forever held close in their hearts. He was a man who valued hard work, cherished time with loved ones, and never hesitated to lend a helping hand. His strength, wisdom, and steady presence provided comfort and guidance to those fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in eternal peace. Relatives and friends were invited to attend a visitation and mass held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Thursday, June 11, 2026. Burial followed in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. To view and sign the Family Guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com