Phillip "Hawkeye" Johnson Jr.'s Obituary
Phillip Johnson, age 84 affectionately known as “Hawkeye” transitioned into eternal rest on Sunday, September 07, 2025.
Born in Annapolis, Maryland, Phillip was the son of the late Phillip Sr. and Elizabeth Johnson.
Phillip received his early education from Anne Arundel Public Schools. He attended Wiley H. Bates High School before he made the decision to join the United States Army, beginning a distinguished military career that would span over two decades. With unwavering commitment and courage, Phillip became a lifelong member of the Armed Forces, always ready to stand in defense of freedom.
Throughout his service, Phillip was stationed at several key military installations, including Fort Meade (Maryland), Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville (Alabama), Fort Rucker (Alabama), Fort Bliss in El Paso (Texas), USAG Rheinland-Pfalz in Baumholder, (Germany) and Caserne Lariboisière in Fontainebleau (France). His assignments reflected both his versatility and his steadfast dedication to duty.
Phillip served as a member of the U.S. Army’s 3rd Armored Division—known as the “Spearhead Division”—Phillip completed two tours in Vietnam, demonstrating extraordinary bravery. His heroism was recognized with the Bronze Star Medal—a testament to his valor and selflessness in combat.
Over the course of his military career, Phillip was certified as both an auto mechanic and a field communications specialist, he earned numerous certifications, awards, and accolades, each marking a chapter of excellence and contribution to the Army and his fellow soldiers.
Phillip retired in 1982 with the rank of Sergeant First Class, receiving an honorable discharge after 22 years of service. His legacy in uniform was one of integrity, leadership, and patriotism.
After retiring from the Army, Phillip continued his service to the community as a clerk at the United States Postal Service Bulk Distribution Center in Kearny, New Jersey, where he worked for another decade before retiring once more.
In 1988, Phillip married his beloved wife, Suzanne D. Johnson. Together, they built a life in Newark, New Jersey, grounded in faith, music, and community. Their union, which spanned over 37 years, was a testament to enduring love, dedication and sacrifice.
It was in Newark that Phillip joined the gospel singing group The Mighty Crystallites, forging deep bonds with his band brothers and showcasing their harmonic talents in churches and venues across cities and states near and far.
Phillip’s love for gospel music had been planted early in life, nurtured as a young member of Second Baptist Church in Annapolis, Maryland. There, he found joy not only in singing but also in listening to various musical artists and genres—each one enriching his mind and soul
Later in life, Phillip returned to his hometown of Annapolis to be near his siblings. He embraced a quiet and peaceful life, finding solace in working on cars and repairing electronics—simple pleasures that reflected his love for craftsmanship.
In addition to his parents, Phillip was also preceded in death by his sisters; Elizabeth O’Connor Gray, Atha Lavinia Johnson, and Betty Mary Pringle. brother; Louis Green brother in laws; Luther Gray, & Issac Pringle sister in laws; Mary Johnson and Joyce Johnson former wife; Geraldine Corbett and eldest cousin; Melvin Clark
Phillip leaves behind to cherish unforgettable moments and beautiful memories to his wife; Suzanne D. Johnson of Newark, New Jersey, daughter; Phyllis Una Johnson, grandchildren; Brandi Jovan Johnson and Jarred Lemar Johnson, great- grandchildren; Kahlon McCulllough and Kendall Johnson all of Huntsville Alabama, sisters; Louise Johnson and Joanne Parker (Joseph) brothers; Jack Johnson (Barbara) and James Johnson, all of Annapolis, Maryland adopted daughter; Sharlette R. Saunders, bonus grand daughter; Kenya Saunders and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
He will also be sorely missed by his eldest cousin; Veronica Johnson and closest friends; Harold & Joseph “Brown, Charles Hicks & Mr. Lee and friends at the Sweet Shop in New Jersey.
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