Civil Rights Leader, Devoted Family man, Richard Johnson, Jr. passed away at the age of 86 on May 3, 2025. Affectionately known as both “Buddy Richard”, “A.J” and “Uncle Buddy”, was born to Richard and Cora Mae Johnson on July 14, 1938, in Newton County, Georgia. He was the youngest of nine siblings and was known for being friendly, kind, and a strong leader throughout his life.

At a very young age he accepted Christ and was baptized at Good Hope Baptist Church in Covington, Georgia where he served in many important roles throughout the years. Richard began his career at the Porterdale Cotton Mill, served in the U.S. Army (1955–1958), and studied Business at Atlanta Technical College. After challenging discrimination at Georgia Highway Express, he became part of one of the first Civil Rights Act lawsuits. He later broke barriers as the first Black car salesman at Lamar Ferrell Chevrolet and founded A & J Bonding Company in Covington.

Richard leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Polly, and his devoted son, Felix (Lacosha). Grandchildren: Joshua (Christian), Josh, Javonte, Steven and Cameron; Great-grandchildren: Turner, Josh, Major, and A’laiya; and a host of other loving special family and friends, church members, and community members who will forever hold him in their hearts.

Home-Going Service honoring his life will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 2:00 P.M. at Good Hope Baptist Church, 1142 Highway 162 Covington, GA 30016 Senior Pastor, Gazzara Mitchell, Eulogist Assisted by others. Interment, Lawnwood Memorial Park. Deacon Johnson will lie in-state at the church from 12:00 Noon until the hour of service. The cortege will assemble at his residence at 1:00 P.M. Visitation will be held for family and friends Tuesday, May 6, 2025, 5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at Good Hope Baptist Church. Service Arrangements Entrusted to: Lester Lackey & Sons Funeral Home, Inc., Covington Georgia 770-786-6177. www.lackeyandsonsfuneralhome.com “A Service of Dignity, A Trademark of Excellence”