William Johnson

William was a believer in Christ. He trusted God and cherished his relationship with him. While living in Brooklyn, New York, he was an active member of the Abyssinian Baptist Church. Upon his return to Milwaukee, WI., he joined Metropolitan Baptist Church, where he attended faithfully. William was also a service to the community. For nine years he served as the Executive Director of the Urban Economic Development Association, an organization dedicated to supporting and developing organizations and businesses in Milwaukee and Southeastern Wisconsin. For his dedicated stewardship, he was awarded a Proclamation by The City of Milwaukee. As we celebrate his life, we encourage you to deepen your connections with your loved ones and let a little more care, passion, and curiosity into your life. In the absence of his physical presence, William’s light will be carried forward by his loving partner of 20 years, Dr. Lottie Smith; his children, Julie Johnson (Sharon), William Johnson Jr., JoAnne Sabir (Maanaan) and Afiyah Myrie (Mouhamadou); his grandchildren, Anijaye, Ameera, Taj, Ayanna, Akil, Amir, and Sahar; one great-grandchild, Josiah; his siblings, Oscar Johnson Sr. (Jimmie) and Charles Johnson. In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that you send a donation to CUPED Corporation c/o William Johnson Fund 1420 W Center Street Suite 2 Milwaukee, WI 53206 or electronic donation http//paypalme/williamjohnsonfund . The fund is set up through CUPED a 503c3 and will be used to support the community we served . As we know, he was passionate about art, culture, and community development. Funds will be used to support legacy investments to advance access to the arts and education. William was a lover of life and as such he wanted us to celebrate his life to the soundtrack of his favorites John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and Marvin Gaye. The family will be honoring his wishes and foregoing a traditional funeral/memorial service and will host William’s final party when we can wear his favorite, linen fashions.