Calvin Muriel Johnson was born on March 3, 1966, in Metter, Georgia to the late Mr. Charlie Johnson and Mrs. Gertie Johnson. In 1968, his father concluded his service in the US Army and moved the family to Savannah, Georgia, where Calvin entered school. There, Calvin attended H. V. Jenkins High School where he was a football player and a well-loved figure. After graduating high school in 1984, Calvin attended Morehouse College, later transferring to the Savannah State College midway through his college tenure. In the early part of 1989, Calvin attended US Marine Corps Bootcamp - Paris Island where he finished and joined the US Marine Corps as a reservist. Known and loved for his style, relaxed, cool demeanor, and contagious sense of humor, during these years Calvin forged and sustained many meaningful relationships. In 1992, after returning to the campus of Savannah State College, he met Vera (Thompson) Johnson. In April 1993, they embarked on almost two decades of marriage and a lifelong partnership and friendship. This union produced his greatest passion, fatherhood. In 1994 and 1998, respectively, Austin and Vernerdean Johnson were born, and since then, he has selflessly devoted his life to providing, supporting, and caring for them.
During his professional career, Calvin worked in logistics as coordinator and manager for Union Camp (now International Paper) and Engelhard Corp (later known as BASF Catalyst Corp.) Calvin eventually transitioned into being successfully self-employed in the logistics and transportation industry. In support of his children’s extracurricular activities, Calvin later became involved in his community. Combining his love of people, sports, and a good time, Calvin became a supporter, assistant coach, and dear friend to members of the Carver Heights community and Savannah area.
A man rich in spirit and a peaceful soul who lived this life his way, Calvin transitioned into eternity late on September 19, 2024. He is survived by his children, Austin (Lashawndra) Johnson and Vernerdean Johnson; his mother, Gertie Johnson; his brother, Greco (Janine) Johnson; his nephew, Evan Johnson; his niece, Nicole Chandler; his companion and partner, Stephanie Smalls; his best friends and brother and sister: Dominic Porter and Amanie Waddy; his god sons, Dillon and Cameron Porter; the mother of his children, Vera Johnson; and a large host of caring friends and loving family.
