David Ray Johnson's Obituary
David Ray Johnson, Age 70 crossed over peacefully on March 24, 2024 to eternal life surrounded by his family who loved him dearly. He has been healed by our Lord Jesus Christ and is able to walk and breathe freely with the loved ones that have crossed before him. Dave was born on April 5, 1953 on Easter Sunday (and liked to celebrate his birthday on the actual date and on Easter, a double celebration) and he was taken to glory on Palm Sunday, a true circle of life.
Dave had an unwavering faith in God, and his faith only grew stronger in his final years of life. His taking care of his family was the most important thing to him and he did that exceptionally well. He enjoyed celebrating special occasions with family and making lasting fond memories.
Dave highly valued education, which was passed down from his parents. He received the following degrees:
Doctor of Medicine, 1983, Wright State University, Dayton, OH Master of Science Environmental Health, 1991, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH Master of Health Administration, 2006, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL Dave was Board Certified in both, Occupational Medicine and Public Health and General Preventive Medicine and a Diplomat of the American Board of Toxicology
Dave served in the military, as a Captain in the US Air Force, Chief of Primary Care Clinic/Flight Surgeon which during that time he was awarded the Army’s Expert Field Medical Badge (EFMB) at Ft. Bragg, NC.
With only a 17-percent pass rate, the Expert Field Medical Badge remains one of the most prestigious and coveted awards a medical professional can obtain in the Army. It is a symbol of excellence, an outward sign of technical and tactical proficiency. Soldiers awarded the EFMB show they have distinguished themselves far above their peers.
He had many different working environments as a physician after being in the Air Force. He at one time held the following roles: Family Practice Physician and Deputy Coroner in Highland County, OH; Occupational Medicine Residency; Director, Mercy Occupational Health Center, Springfield, OH; Medical Director of Occupational/Business Health, Naples, FL; Private practice in Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Naples, FL; Chief of the Bureau of Environmental Epidemiology, Florida Dept. of Health, Tallahassee, FL; County Health Dept Administrator and Medical Director, Pasco County, FL; Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Tampa Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), Tampa, FL
Upon his retirement at the MEPS, Dave was awarded The Meritorious Civilian Service Award. It is the third highest award granted by U.S. Army Commanders. Nominees must have established a pattern of excellence, normally demonstrated by the receipt of lower level awards. The award is comparable to the military Meritorious Service Medal
Dave was a contributing author to several chapters of the Sixth Edition of Hamilton’s & Hardy’s Industrial Toxicology, Edited by Raymond D. Harbison, and others. Wiley
Dave was a passionate lover of music specifically playing his drums and also enjoyed singing. He and his wife Rita met playing music and until recently, they played for many years for their church, family and friends. Dave and Rita would have been married 50 years this November.
Dave also valued good health and was disciplined with eating nutritious foods, and exercising. He enjoyed walking with his sidekick, Amy, in his neighborhood. He trained her to be an affectionate, sweet loving dog; she will miss him immensely. He enjoyed our area weather and looking at the Gulf of Mexico created a serene presence around him; just did him good.
Favorite phrases: I love you! Don’t be stressed out, relax, don’t rush.
Dave is survived by his family who was his life and he theirs. He will be sadly missed and cherished by
Rita Johnson, wife; Eric Johnson, son; Jessica Stulginski, daughter; Pete Stulginski, son-in-law. Much loved grandchildren, Alex Johnson, Rachel Johnson, Tyler Stulginski, Carter Johnson and Alexis Stulginski. Steve Johnson, brother; Brian Johnson, brother; Laura Johnson, sister-in-law. Nephews Mark Johnson, Tim Johnson and Mike Johnson and many extended family members and numerous family by marriage and friends which he loved.
Preceded in eternal life by his Father and Mother, Edward and Evelyn Johnson; Father and Mother-in-law, Robert and Maria Howe; and Judith (Judee) Johnson, sister-in-law.
Dave lived his life with heart and truth, serving the Lord by example through his actions, attitude and deeds. Dave was a faithful Christian and spiritual leader to his family who has received his reward in heaven: “As for me and my house we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15.
Also, Dave being very health conscious knowing that there were children around the world without food pained him, especially while we were so undeservedly blessed. His heart generously gave to Christ-centered organizations focusing on feeding programs, especially to children. In lieu of flowers, feel free to leave a donation in Dave’s name to: Feed My Starving Children (FMSC): https://give.fmsc.org
Gathering will be from 1 to 3 pm with his service to be held at 3:00 pm on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at Grace Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home 16931 US Highway 19 N, Hudson, FL, 34667. Service will be officiated by Pastor Gabriel Papadopoulos. Internment of Dave’s ashes will be at Bushnell National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL with full military honors on Monday, April 29, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.. All are welcome to attend.
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