Dr. C Paul Johnson

Another distinguished and honorable World War II veteran and a member of the “Greatest Generation” has left us. Dr. C Paul Johnson passed away on March 9, 2015. C Paul Johnson Jr. was born on March 4th, 1921 in Sheldon, Illinois, the middle of three sons to Mabel and Clarence Johnson. When the Second World War broke out, Paul joined the USMC and served as a first lieutenant in squadron VMSB 333. During his tour of duty he piloted dive-bombers on combat missions while stationed in the Midway Islands. His former gunner Frank Hughes said recently, “There is a soft spot in my heart for him because he was my pilot and between the two of us we kept each other alive.” Paul served in the American and Pacific Theaters and received many honors including Air Medal, Victory Medal, and a National Defense Service Medial with Bronze Star. After the war ended, Paul put himself through college and dental school at the University of Iowa. When the Korean Conflict erupted he was recalled from the reserves and served our country as a dentist in the Navy at the US Naval Hospital, Annapolis, Maryland, the 15th Naval District Panama Canal Zone and NAS in Jacksonville, Fl. After more than 20 years of military service he retired at the rank of Commander in 1966 and went into private dental practice. While most people dread the dentist chair, Dr. J’s patients looked forward to his expert and gentle care, always receiving a few corny jokes thrown in for good measure. He finally retired at age 84, and continued his active lifestyle, playing tennis and bridge, enjoying his long-standing Sertoma friends, his Ortega United Methodist Church family, dear friends and family. He leaves behind his loving wife, Margaret “Peggy”, his adoring children, Nancy (Jerry) Munn, Kristin (David) Brett, Sharon (David) Mills, Joan (Jim) Montague and Jeff (April) Johnson, seven devoted grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, his superior friend and caregiver, Sharon Hill and many other close friends. We will miss him beyond words. Semper Fi. A celebration of his life will be held on Monday, March 16, 2015 at 1:00 pm at Ortega United Methodist Church. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Children’s Home Society of Florida, 3027 San Diego Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207 or the Ortega United Methodist Church, 4807 Roosevelt Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32210. Please sign the online guestbook at www.broadusraines.com. Arrangements are under the care of Broadus-Raines Funeral Home, 501 Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL 30243 (904) 284-4000.