Preston Louis Johnson

Preston Louis Johnson, age 78, of Bessemer, Alabama, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2026, and was reunited in Heaven with his beloved wife, Sharon. He was welcomed there by his parents, Homer and Cornelia Hulgan Johnson; his sister, Wanda Johnson Wheeler; and his nephew, Dustin Womble. Preston leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love in the family he cherished dearly. He is survived by his son, Preston Jason Johnson (Wendy), and his daughter, Kimberly Johnson (Jeremy Raymond); his sister, Frances Johnson Blake (David); and his grandchildren, Preston Trevor Johnson (Selena), U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Ty Tipton (MaKayla), and Taci Tipton. He was lovingly known as “Pappy” by his grandchildren, a name that reflected the special bond they shared. Preston was also eagerly awaiting the arrival of his great-grandson, Oliver Johnson, who is due to be born in November. He leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and loved ones who will cherish his memory. Preston lived a full and happy life and was affectionately known by many of his friends as “Pokey.” He had a passion for NASCAR and even owned his own race car, enjoying time on the track at Sayre and BIR race tracks. He loved working in his garden, cooking for family and friends, and cheering faithfully for the Alabama Crimson Tide. You could count on Preston to never miss a game. A hardworking and talented man, Preston spent many years taking on a variety of jobs and adventures. He drove a wrecker and an ambulance, owned a pulpwood truck, repaired automobiles, hauled gravel and dirt with his dump truck, and was always willing to put his skills to work. His full-time career was as a Millwright at the Harbison Walker Refractories Fairfield Plant, where he dedicated many years of hard work. Preston and Sharon also shared a love of adventure. Together, they traveled to flea markets, where they sold Preston’s own Pokey’s Pro Baits, along with antiques and collectibles that Sharon had carefully discovered. Their travels and time together created many wonderful memories that their family will hold close to their hearts. But above all of Preston’s many interests and accomplishments, his greatest joy was his wife and his family. He and Sharon enjoyed traveling, camping, and spending time together. And there was perhaps nothing Preston enjoyed more than taking his boat out for a day on the water, fishing and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. Preston will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his many talents, his love of the outdoors, his sense of adventure, and, most importantly, the love he had for his family. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories he created and the love he gave will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Funeral services for Preston Louis Johnson will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at McCalla Memorial Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 2:00 p.m. May Preston rest peacefully, reunited with the love of his life, Sharon, and may his memory continue to bring comfort to all who loved him.

Preston Louis Johnson

November 13, 1947 - August 28, 2026