Kenneth Gene Johnson, age 79, of Newcomb, Tennessee, passed away Thursday morning, January 5, 2023, at Beech Tree Post-Acute and Rehabilitation Center in Jellico, surrounded by his family.

He was born on December 21, 1943, to the late George Dewey Johnson and Clara (Long) Johnson in Pruden, Tennessee.  He was the grandson of the late Joe F. Johnson and Mary Ann (Sears) Johnson and the late Quincy H. Long and Florence (Bowlin) Long.

Kenneth loved the Lord and was a member of Mtn. Ash Baptist Church.  He was also a dedicated educator, principal, and teacher for the Campbell County School System for more than 50 years.

He had a desire for community service and worked as a Jellico City Councilman and Campbell County Commissioner for several years.  He was also a 50 Year Member of Jellico Masonic Lodge, # 527, F. & A.M., having been raised a Master Mason on April 8, 1967.

In addition to his parents and grandparents, he was preceded in death by three sisters, Audrey (Johnson) Engle, Georgia (Johnson) Edwards, and Florence Inis Johnson.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Brenda (Baird) Johnson, and beloved daughter, Jennifer Johnson, both of Newcomb, TN; sister, Helen(Johnson) Cobb, of Corbin, Kentucky; several nieces and nephews; and a host of friends, neighbors, former students, and other relatives to mourn his passing.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Monday evening, January9, 2023, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Cox & Son Funeral Home Chapel.

Masonic Funeral Rites will be conducted by the Jellico Masonic Lodge # 527,F. & A.M. on Monday evening, January 9, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. at the Cox & Son Funeral Home Chapel.  The funeral will immediately follow with the Rev. Billy Carpenter, Rev. James Kilgore, and Rev. Francis “Junior” Dople officiating.

Interment will be held on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at 12:00 noon in the Douglas Cemetery.  Those who desire to go in procession to Douglas Cemetery should be at Cox & Son Funeral Home on Tuesday morning, January 10, 2023, at 11:15 a.m.

The family would like to offer special thanks to the nurses and staff at Beech Tree Manor for all of the excellent care provided for both Kenneth,and his family, during his stay there.

Cox & Son Funeral Home of Jellico is in charge of all arrangements.

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