John William Johnson, age 79, of Smithfield, passed away at his home on October 8, 2019.  Born in Johnston County on March 9, 1940, he was the son of the late Sim and Annie Rose Johnson.  John was a veteran of the United States Navy and was a member of North Smithfield Baptist Church.  He worked for many years as a route salesman for Faye's Sandwich Company and owned and operated Shirley's Grill in Smithfield for 20 years. Mr. Johnson also was an instructor at Johnston Community College for several years.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 12, at 11:00 AM in Hills of the Neuse Memory Gardens near Smithfield.  The family will receive friends at the residence.

Surviving are his wife, Shirley Futch Johnson; his son, Johnny Wayne Futch and wife Cathy of Clayton; his daughter, Penny Liles of Smithfield; his brother, Tom Johnson of Fayetteville; six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Pine Level VFW, P.O. Box 429, Pine Level, NC 27568.