Martin Dwain "DEE" Johnson

Martin “Dee” Johnson peacefully entered the gates of heaven on October 6, 2023, where he was undoubtedly embraced by his loving wife, Frances. Born on August 27, 1936 in Erin, Tennessee, Dee eagerly enlisted in the United States Navy at only 17 years of age. He was assigned to the U.S. Naval Construction Battalion, Amphibious Construction Battalion TWO (more commonly known as the “SeaBees”) and performed his role as a Deep-Sea Diver with the utmost of skill. Dee served two tours in the Vietnam War and was awarded several medals for his service before his retirement in 1972.

Though his military career was noteworthy, he would deem his highest achievement in life as marrying his beloved Frances, who traveled the world with him and provided endless, unwavering support and love. After his retirement from the Navy, Dee began his career as a logger and built a successful family business which was carried on by his loving son. Dee loved to hunt, fish, garden and bee keep. He found great joy in sharing his honeybee bounty and abundant vegetable harvest with his friends and community.

Preceded in death by his loving wife of 57 years, Ruth Frances Banks Johnson. Dee is survived by his three children, Cathie Johnson Foster (Steve) of Gibsonville, Sherri Johnson Miller (Chuck) of Jacksonville, Martin “Dwain” Johnson, Jr. of Maysville; three grandchildren, Shawna Johnson Henderson (Chris) of Raleigh, Colton Dwain Johnson (Alexandra) of Canton, Victoria Frances Miller of Jacksonville; two great-grandchildren, Willow and Desi; his brother, Jerry Johnson (Glenda) and sisters Retha Johnson and Ruth Best, all of Tennessee.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, October 11th at First Baptist Church of Maysville with the Rev. James Williford officiating. Burial will be in Dogwood Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, October 10th at First Baptist Church of Maysville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gideon's International, P.O. Box 140800, Nashville, Tennessee 37214. Arrangements entrusted to Sayland Funeral Home, Maysville.

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