William Hugh Johnson

William Hugh Johnson, age 74, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2023, surrounded by his devoted family. Bill was born on December 24, 1948, in St. Joseph, Michigan to Hugh and Mary Johnson. He and his wife of 51 years, B.J. Johnson, lived in Grants, New Mexico where they raised their daughters, Mary Kathryn (Brudos) and Jay Jay (Philestina Yazzie). Known to many as “Grandpa,” he was dedicated to his granddaughters, Matia Castillo (Lawrence Molina), Vanessa Castillo (Alex Meza), Emma Brudos (Brandon Cast), and Sterling Anderson; as well as his great-grandchildren, Izaya Watters, Karlos Meza, Andres Meza, Noah Gallegos, Nerea DeVargas, and Mariano Meza. Bill is survived by his two sisters, Kathie Lallement and Karen Sandoval and their families.

Bill was involved in law enforcement in various ways throughout his professional career. He was a police officer rising in ranks from Patrolman to a Chief of Police. He worked as the Chief Investigator at SOARS, until his death. Bill was a man of integrity that lived his life in service of others, believing everyone had an obligation to always do their best and help others whenever possible. He gained the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children. He asked for so little but gave so very much. We are all better because we shared this world with him. As long as we live, you will live. As long as we live, you will be remembered. As long as we live, you will be loved.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 18, 2023, at 2:00 at Compassion Mortuary in Grants, NM. There will be a reception to follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Bill’s memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.