Obituary for Carroll “Joe” Pete Johnson Jr.

Carroll Pete “Joe” Johnson Jr., a devoted husband, brother, uncle and dear friend, passed away unexpectedly at his home on December 5, 2025, at the age of 81. He was born in Sioux City, Iowa, on December 16, 1943, to Carroll Pete Johnson and Juanita (Gedney) Johnson. Though named Carroll, he was affectionately known throughout his life as Joe, and even having no children of his own he stood the role of a father in many lives of his close family.

Joe shared 54 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Lillian Riley Johnson. Their union was a testament to love, loyalty, and mutual respect, and together they built a life grounded in strong family values and enduring affection with hopes of passing this along to the ones who had the privilege of knowing him.

An avid outdoorsman, Joe had a deep passion for hunting, fishing, and exploring the outdoors. He especially enjoyed searching for Native American artifacts and loved classic cars these being of pastime but brought him great fulfillment. He also loved classic rock music, with a particular fondness for The Beatles and always appreciated every invite to any family gathering just to be in company of the ones he loved.

Joe’s professional life was marked by dedication and service. With the recommendation of Congressman Wendel Rivers, he began his career working at Chrysler. He later worked at Cape Canaveral as a maintenance technician on the launch pads and spacecraft. After being laid off from the Cape, he joined the Gainesville Police Department, where he served as a detective for 19 years and was widely known by his nickname, C.P. He retired with honor in 2000.

A true animal lover, Joe cherished all creatures great and small, but none more than his five beloved dogs—his “children”: Sweetpea, Honeybee, Princess, Rambo, and Pumpkin.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents Carroll Pete and Juanita Johnson, his beloved wife Lillian Riley Johnson, and his sister, Donna Bullock. He is survived by three sisters: Karen Young (Warren “Boogie” Young), Cindy Shea, and Jenny Padgett. He is also survived by two sisters-in-laws, Vivian Smith (Edward Smith) and Helen Monds (deceased husband Jeff Monds), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will hold his memory close to their hearts.

Joe’s life was defined by good deeds of kindness, dedication, and unwavering support for those he loved. His legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.

A viewing service will be held on December 11, 2025,at Harry T. Reid Funeral Home at 10 am and a graveside service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. 

Rest in peace, Joe. Your love for family, the outdoors, your community, and your animals will be forever remembered