Ronald "RJ" William Johnson transitioned away from his Earthly body on December 15th, 2022 at the age of 72 surrounded by loved ones at his home in Williamsburg, Virginia after a brave yet brief battle with Leukemia that was only recently diagnosed. He courageously exhausted all treatments before surrendering with dignity and grace.

Ronnie was born on May 19th,1950, and was an active Class of 1969 Newport News High School Alumni member. He was voted "Best Dressed" by his classmates and this title held true throughout his lifetime. He rapidly climbed the ranks at Newport News Shipbuilding & Drydock Co. and achieved success as the youngest supervisor of his time before "retiring" into entrepreneurship. Ronnie enjoyed many successful years in the local restaurant and nightclub industry. The iconic bikini bar, The Katt, and his namesake, RJ's Sports Pub & Restaurant as well as The Red Maple Inn were the "in places" to be under his reign.

It was during this same era that his greatest gift, a beautiful daughter, Andrea Helen Johnson, was born, stealing his heart and instantly becoming the apple of Ronnie's eye.

A lifelong resident of Newport News, Ronnie was well-known for his charitable work in the community. He formed the Dale Lucado Foundation and hosted a number of fundraising events to support this foundation and his dear friend who preceded him in death, Dale Lucado.

RJ was also active in his charitable support of the Peninsula Boys and Girls Club. He cited the organization as a catalyst for his success. He often expressed gratitude for the lessons he learned and the relationships he made at the boys club growing up. Over the years, he hosted numerous charitable events at RJ's Sports Pub by rallying local celebrity athletes to make appearances and donations of sports memorabilia to help raise money for underprivileged youth.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his father, Vetty Eugene Johnson, his mother, Ruth Luckham, and his sister, Yvonne Walker. He is survived by his daughter, Andrea Morter (Ben), two grandchildren whom he adored, Kiyah and Dexter. His loving partner, Michelle Donnelly, nephew, Robert Keller (Donna), niece Connie Buffa, special cousin, Sharon Fields, and his dog Jack who he loved so dearly.

Anyone who had the good fortune to call RJ a friend knows he was the life of the party and a uniquely colorful character who played full out in this life. We take comfort in knowing that his reception celebration at the "Grand Sports Pub in the Sky" is surely one of raised glasses, laughter, and great joy as he reunites with his loved ones.

The family will receive visitors on Monday, Dec. 19th, 2022 from 5 to 7 PM at Parkview Baptist Church. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Tuesday, Dec. 20th at 11 AM. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Peninsula Boys & Girls Club.