State Representative Ron Johnson, R-Sylacauga, passed away Tuesday from complications with liver cancer. Johnson was the longest serving member of the Alabama House of Representatives. Alabama Republican Party Chairman Terry Lathan said that she was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Johnson.
“We were so deeply saddened as we learned about the passing of Alabama State Representative Ron Johnson,” Lathan said. “He proudly and selflessly served the people of Sylacauga and the surrounding area for 42 years. His background as a pharmacist and a businessman gave him valuable insight in his role as Vice Chairman of the Health Committee. He was deeply respected by his colleagues in the House and was always willing to help anyone in need.”
Johnson was the longest-serving member in the Alabama House, which is an honorable testament of how the citizens of his district felt about him, Lathan said.
“He earned their trust and loved serving his community. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife, Susan, and daughter, Stephanie Lee,” Lathan said. “Please join us in lifting his family and friends up in prayer during this difficult time.”
Johnson was elected in 1978 as a Democrat and switched to the Republican Party in 1998. Johnson was a pharmacist with degrees from Florida State and Auburn University. Johnson represented parts of Talladega, Clay and Coosa counties.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey will call a special election to fill the House District 33 vacancy in the legislature.
APR was told that the family has elected not to hold a public celebration of his life at this time due to the COVID-19 crisis.
