John David 'Bird' Johnson

John David ‘Bird’ Johnson age 60, of Toronto OH, passed away Friday December 18, 2020 after a long courageous battle with cancer.

Bird was born May 16, 1960 in Steubenville OH. He was raised by his loving grandparents, the late Grant Ellsworth Frey and Rita Frey Bone.

Bird leaves behind his wife of 26 years, Roberta Elder Johnson, and his two children, Nicholas (Brittany Tice) Johnson of Toronto, and Eva Johnson of the home, as well as his 6 siblings, Brenda (Joseph) Staffilino of Mingo Jct., Barb (Curtis Burchfield) Dray of Steubenville, OH, Candy (Doug) Southerin of Toronto, OH, Bill (Annie Wade) of Steubenville OH, Bob Johnson of Massillon, OH, and Donald Longo of Steubenville, OH.  He will be remembered with love by his many nieces & nephews, as well as his favorite four-legged friends, Buckley, Rebel & Bug.

Bird was a lifelong trucker. He was owner/operator of J.D. Johnson Trucking, as well as an independent contractor through PI&I Trucking Co. He tore up the pavement during the week, and the dirt track on the weekends. He had a true passion for racing dirt track cars, and turning wrenches: if it had an engine, he could fix it. He also enjoyed spending time with his family, boating, four-wheeling, music of all genres, and an ice-cold beer.

He was a loving father, companion, brother, son & friend. He was a true legend here in the Ohio Valley and did not know a stranger. Everyone he met became a friend of his. He would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. He loved with all he had and made the world a better place, just by being in it. His grin was contagious, his words of wisdom were cherished by many, and his love was felt by all. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all of those who were blessed to have known him.

Family and friends will be received Tuesday, Dec. 22 from 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 8 PM at the J.E. Foster Funeral Home in Toronto. Bird’s funeral service will be held Wednesday at 11 AM at the funeral home with Rev. John Westling officiating. Burial will follow in Osage Cemetery with a small luncheon to follow at the Brierwood Tavern in Pottery Addition.

In memory of Bird, flowers can be sent to the funeral home or a monetary donation can be made to Osage Church c/o Mike Swickard, 12382 State Route 152 Toronto, OH 43964 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105.