Rev. Dickie W. Johnson of Covington, passed away January 1, 2017 at 72 years of age.  He was ordained in Brunswick, GA, at the age of 19 and served as a pastor for 52 years.  Preacher Dickie pastored churches in Wheeler, Telfair, Laurens, Berrien, and Wayne counties before coming to Newton County, where he served as pastor for Porterdale Baptist Church for 32 years.  Preacher Dickie was an avid deer hunter and Georgia Bulldog fan.  He always supported his grandsons in whatever activity they were involved.  He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and cherished pastor and friend.  Preacher Dickie was preceded in death by his parents, W.D. and Mary Alice (Brown) Johnson. 

Survivors include his loving wife of 53 years, Polly Johnson; daughter and son-in-law, René and D.J. Seals of Covington; grandsons, Jared Seals, Parker Wayne Seals; sisters and brothers-in-law, Jean and John Carlton, Melissa and Pat Reddish; brother and sister-in-law, Harry and Sarah Johnson; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service for Preacher Dickie will be held Thursday, January 5, 2017, 2 p.m., at First Baptist Church, 1139 Usher St., Covington, with Rev. David Wheeler and Dr. Cody McNutt officiating.  Interment will follow in Lawnwood Memorial Park.  Friends may visit with the family Wednesday, January 4, from 5 – 8 p.m., in the Fellowship Hall at First Baptist Church in Covington.  In lieu of flowers contributions in Preacher Dickie’s memory may be made to Porterdale Baptist Church, P.O. Box 637, Porterdale, GA  30070.