Damon Jerod Johnson

Damon Jerod Johnson was born November 16, 1975 to Naomi and the late Bobby Johnson in Chicago, Illinois.  A preemie at birth he weighed just three pounds but it didn’t take long for him to grow and thrive. 

Damon was an outstanding student. While attending Sieden Prairie Elementary School he found a love for music. At Forest Trail Junior High he learned to play saxophone and at Hillcrest High School he nurtured a passion for jazz and singing.  Damon graduated from Southern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Radio and Television production. After graduation, he worked on shows including Mad TV and The Jenny Jones Show.  Damon also had a heart for the youth.  He worked in many roles supporting the growth and development of young people.  Damon’s last employment was with Prairie Hills Junior High.

Damon was incredibly talented.  He taught himself to play piano by watching his cousin practice.  He sang in the Sunshine Band, YPWW and participated in many other ministries at Faith Temple. He cofounded a singing group with friends from college called Heirs To The Throne. For nearly 30 yrs, he used his talents to serve as minister of music at Sound Doctrine and New Life Family Worship Center.  When he wasn’t singing in church you could find him making music and singing karaoke at various places across the city.

Damon loved music.  Gospel, jazz, hip hop, indie, folk, he loved it all and enjoying introducing others to new music.  Damon also loved TV and movies.  He was always ready with a good movie or series recommendation.

Damon confessed Jesus Christ as his personal savior and was always eager to share his faith with others.  He loved encouraging others especially his friends.  Even as disease caused him pain and limited his abilities Damon would reach out to check on and encourage friends and family.  He would regularly post a picture with a smile and encouraging word.  Even during his difficult days he kept his faith in God.  He kept his faith until the end.

Damon transitioned into eternity on Monday, January 29 after fiercely battling a rare cancer. He is preceded in death by his father Bobby Joe Johnson; an uncle Larry Johnson and a beloved dog Chase.  He leaves to cherish his memory a devoted mother, Naomi “Polly” Johnson; a loving sister, Monica (Alex) Locker; a dear nephew, Nathaniel “Nate” Locker; two aunts Minnie Woolfolk and Faye (Robert) Caldwell; an uncle Raymond Bishop, and a host of cherished cousins, other extended family and dear friends.

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