IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Paul L.

Paul L. (“Big Paul”)  Johnson Profile Photo

(“Big Paul”) Johnson

October 19, 1940 – December 27, 2025

Obituary

Paul L. Johnson was born on October 19, 1940 in Coatesville, Pennsylvania. He was the beloved son of the late Albert "Busty" Johnson and Alice Curry Johnson. On Saturday, December 27, 2025, Paul peacefully entered eternal rest at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. Paul was a lifelong resident of Coatesville, Pennsylvania, attended Passtown School and was a proud graduate of S. Horace Scott High School, carrying a deep love for his hometown and community throughout his life. Paul dedicated more than 30 years to serving others as a supervisor at Embreeville State Hospital, where his steady presence, reliability, and commitment earned the respect of colleagues and patients alike. Later, he shared his culinary talents at the Concern Treatment Center for Boys, using his gift for cooking to nurture, comfort, and connect with those in his care. For many years, he was a friendly and familiar face on Election Day, taking his role as a civil servant very seriously by serving at the polls in Valley Township and greeting voters with warmth and kindness.

Cooking was Paul's love language. His kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and unforgettable meals. Family and friends fondly remember his famous potato salad and collard greens—always prepared with care, full of flavor, and seasoned just right. To be served a meal by Paul was to be reminded of his love. A devoted Philadelphia Eagles fan, Paul looked forward to each new season with enthusiasm and loyalty. He cherished time spent with family, was always ready to help anyone in need, and brought comfort and joy to everyone around him. He enjoyed Delaware Park and treasured his weekly card games with The Club Six (Friday Card Circle), where friendships and laughter were shared. Paul delighted in creating lasting memories that will be treasured by all who knew him. Paul shared an unbreakable bond with his beloved sister, Catherine Johnson. Together, they lived their entire lives in the home where they were raised—a home filled with faith, resilience, cherished memories, and enduring love. Their relationship reflected loyalty, devotion, and quiet strength, serving as a testament to the power of family. On May 17, 2024, Paul was baptized and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior, a faith he cherished his entire life and held close to the commitment he made. Paul leaves to cherish his memory his beloved sister, Catherine Johnson; his devoted niece, Ethel (Shaun) Dickerson, whom he raised as his own daughter; Dolores Peters, who he loved dearly and served as a father figure to; and a loving family of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended relatives, and dear friends. In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his brothers, Donald Johnson, Arthur "Oppie" (Mary) Curry, and John O. Johnson; his sisters, Cora (William) Norman, Laura E. Griffy, and Faye (Prince) Melvin; and his nephews, Eric J. Griffy, Darrin L. Fields, and Paul (Michelle) Johnson, whom he lovingly raised as his own son. Paul's legacy lives on in the meals he prepared, the love he shared, the joy he brought to friends and family, and the memories he created. His generosity, kindness, and devotion will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him. A service celebrating his life will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the First Baptist Church of Passtown, 117 Barber Avenue, Coatesville, Pennsylvania. A viewing will be held from 9:00 AM until 10:45 AM.

Interment will be held at the New Evergreen Cemetery in Coatesville.

The community may share condolences through the guestbook link on this memorial page. All are welcome to light a candle in his memory. Those planning to attend the service are asked to wear Philadelphia Eagles attire. Flowers may be sent to the church on the day of the service. The flower theme colors are green and white.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Paul L. (“Big Paul”) Johnson, please visit our flower store.

Services

Viewing

Calendar
January
6

First Baptist Church of Passtown

117 Barber Avenue, Coatesville, PA 19320

9:00 - 10:45 am

Funeral Service

Calendar
January
6

First Baptist Church of Passtown

117 Barber Avenue, Coatesville, PA 19320

Starts at 11:00 am

Interment Following Funeral Service

Paul L. (“Big Paul”) Johnson's Guestbook

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