Russell John Ellis Johnson

Russell J. Johnson, age 62, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 16, 2022 after a long battle with neurosarcoidosis. He was born January 5, 1960 to Gloria and James Johnson in Glen Cove, New York. After Russell graduated from Roslyn High School in 1978, he went on to study Criminal Justice at El Camino College in Torrance, California. After graduating with a degree in Criminal Justice, he started his career with the New York State Police in 1983, kickstarting a 20 year career in law enforcement. In 1984, Russell met Marijani Rakiep in New York City. Russell and Marijani married and went on to have one baby boy, Kyle N. Johnson.

Russell truly lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures; traveling, attending jazz concerts, photography and chatting with friends and family. Russell was optimistic and humorous through his great storytelling. In 2003, Russell retired, and he spent time living in Georgia, traveling the world; working private security for celebrities such as singer Ashanti and NBA Player Joe Johnson. Russell worked as a US Marshall at the federal building in Rome, Georgia providing security for lifetime Supreme Court Justice Harold Llyod Murphy.

Russell was predeceased by his mother, Gloria Johnson; father, James Johnson, and sister, April Heyliger. He is survived by his sons, Kyle Johnson, Walter Gortman; daughter in law, Dana Johnson; grandchildren, Dylan & Hazel Johnson; niece, Satika Heyliger; sisters, Debra Johnson, Valerie Mcfadden; brothers, Derek Johnson, James Johnson Jr.; and many cousins. 

Family, friends, and others whose lives Russell touched are invited to the Thomas Dalton Funeral Home, from 4 p.m.- 7 p.m. on Monday, November 28, 2022 to reminisce, grieve and support each other.