Larry Bruce "Mr. Jay" Johnson

Larry Bruce Johnson, affectionately known as "Mr. Jay," passed away peacefully on Monday, July 28, 2025, at the age of 78. Born in Robeson County on July 23, 1947, to Woodrow Wilson Johnson and Eunice Lee Johnson, Larry's life was a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of education, humor, and unwavering kindness.

Preceded in death by his parents, brother Gerald Lee "Jerry" Johnson, and adopted brothers Paul T. Canady and Andy Canady, Larry leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond his immediate family. He is survived by his nephew Michael (Melanie) Johnson, and their children Ava and Gavin of Franklin, TN; cherished cousins Nettie Sue Rainey, Jennifer Rainey, and Kathy Johnson Imbriani; and his beloved adopted family: Hazel Canady, Truett (Len) Canady, Baxter (Margaret) Canady, Dixie Canady, and Bonnie J. Canady. He will also be deeply missed by his adopted nieces and nephews Justin (Crystal) Monroe, Jessica Monroe , Stephanie (Wyatt) Nicholson, Hannah, Paul, Brooke, and Isaac Canady, as well as his 5½ great-grandnieces and nephews. His adopted grandsons, Austin and Xavier "Noodles" Blake, held a special place in his heart, as did the members of his beloved McDonald's crew – a group who, like Larry, can brighten any day with laughter and camaraderie as they try to solve the worlds problems with a quip and a cup of coffee.

Larry's dedication to education spanned decades. He earned his undergraduate degree from Pembroke State University and a Master's Degree from Appalachian State University, before retiring from the Public Schools of NC as a guidance counselor. His career took him through Richmond County (Rockingham High School), Cumberland County (Douglas Byrd High School and Massey Hill), and the Public Schools of Robeson County (Parkton, St. Pauls High School, and Lumberton Senior High School).

"Mr. Jay" possessed a unique and unforgettable personality. His quick wit, twisted sense of humor, encyclopedic historical knowledge, and sharp intellect were matched only by his compassionate heart. He had a remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and he genuinely cared about making a difference in others lives and his community. Stories of his “quacking” hand, his larger-than-life personality, and his countless acts of kindness will undoubtedly continue to grow. His family promises to help them become more exaggerated as time passes as a testament and tribute to the joy and fun he brought to those around him. His love for fellowship, delicious meals, and history were unparalleled and although he attended culinary school, his family will miss the cocktail smoked meatballs and various contributions of questionable meats and cheeses he generously brought to the family gatherings the most. Larry held a deep respect for our military and veterans, always eager to express his gratitude, he would often purchase meals for them as they were passing through.

If you have read this far, Mr. Jay would be pleased you learned to read and would also encourage you to always be yourself as it is the only way to find out who truly cares and loves you for you.

If you loved him, he would want you to know he appreciated you and he loved you back. If you didn’t, he would want you to know, oh well, there’s that.

In lieu of flowers, Larry’s family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice. However, donations to the Love Thy Neighbor Food Pantry at Lumber Bridge Baptist Church, or to the Sons of Confederate Veterans Robeson Rifle Guard Camp #216, would be particularly meaningful, reflecting Larry’s commitment to community and heritage. Alternatively, and in the spirit of Larry's generous nature, consider performing a random act of kindness. Pay for someone's lunch, lend a listening ear, share a funny meme – anything that brightens someone's day in the way that Larry so often did. Let your kindness ripple outwards, creating a wave of positivity in his memory.

A celebration of Larry's life will be held on Friday, August 1, 1025 at McNeill Legacy Funeral Home in St. Pauls, NC. Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m., followed by the service at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel. Let us come together to honor the memory of our dear friend and loved one.