Charles Edward Johnson

Charles Edward Johnson, affectionately known as “Sonny” was born March 12, 1941, in Wilmot, Arkansas, to Captain (Cap) and Bessie Johnson. He was the 9th child of 11 born to this union. His son, Charles Junior; siblings, Essie L. Powers, Ola M. Franklin, Bernice Waters, Odesser Johnson, Lucille (Sister) Nunley, Cora L. (Red) Wimberly, James (Brother) Johnson, Nathaniel (Ted) Johnson, Willie E. Johnson, Fred H. Johnson; and his parents, all preceded him in death. Charles departed this life Friday, November 17, 2023, at McNeal Hospital after a brief illness.

Charles met and married his wife, Evelyn “Lois” while working at the CTA. They were married for 28 years. He was the father of 12 children, whom he cherished. All of which he would do whatever he could to ensure their success and well being in life.

Charles started his Christian journey and was baptized in Arkansas as a youth. Upon moving to Chicago he united with Friendship Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend Freeman. He was educated in the Arkansas Public School System, and graduated from Slack LeGrande High School. He continued his education at Malcolm X College in Chicago where he received his bachelor’s degree.

Charles had several jobs when he came to Chicago, Rothchild Meat Packing, and Sunbeam Electric to name a few. His longest employment was at the Chicago Transit Authority where he started as a Bus Operator, then a Bus Service Supervisor, and retired as a Bus Instructor after almost 30 years of service. He enjoyed teaching new operators and feeling like he made a difference in the training process of new employees.

Charles proudly served his country in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged. He often encouraged his children, other youth and grandchildren to enlist as well, if they didn’t want to go to college. He wanted them to be all that they could be. He loved his family. He looked forward to his annual family reunion. No matter where it was, he was there. He was very highly thought of by his nieces, nephews, and extended family. They often spoke of how he helped their family along the way and the positive influence he had on their lives. He was always willing to listen to anyone that had a problem. He loved to talk as well and give his counsel and wisdom no matter what the situation was. He would talk to anyone for hours. He was very patient with people and had a compassionate spirit. He was always willing to lend a helping hand. If he could help you, he would. He was a proud man that felt he could do anything. He even named himself “Charles Do.” Charles was a jack of all trades. He could fix anything, washers, cars, furnaces, stoves and list goes on. Most of the family and friends have something he has repaired or gave them instructions on how to fix it themselves. He has saved many people a lot of money. His prowess, endless conversations, and most of all his presence will surely be missed.

He leaves to cherish his memory: a loving wife, Evelyn “Lois,” one sister in-law, Ola Bea Johnson; 10 daughters, Monique, Shevonne, Michelle, Bess, Emma, Gwen (Charles), Stephanie, Clesia, Devonia, and Camille; two sons, Bryant, and Jonathan; a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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