Stephen Johnson - Cremation Society of Virginia

Stephen Johnson

February 26, 1949 - April 13, 2020

Virginia Beach ~ Stephen Johnson, 71, went to fly with the Eagles on April 13, 2020 in Virginia Beach, VA, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Upper Darby, PA on February 26, 1949 and was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Trudy Johnson and by his sister Beverly Dobson.

He was the Executive Director of the Endependence Center for 27 years and spend his career advocating for people with disabilities. He loved the Lord and his family, and loved everyone unconditionally. His first love was the Philadelphia Eagles and he was their biggest fanatic. He had the Philadelphia newspaper delivered to his home in the off season just in case there was a snippet of information in the sports page or he would hide in the bathroom if the games were close (which was often) as he could not bear to see them lose. He also loved fishing and would spend hours on the fishing pier in all kinds of weather waiting for the “big” one to bite on one of his multiple rods.

He is survived by his beloved wife Linda, was a Dad to Nicola Smith, Steven Smith(Charlotte) and Tiffany Stewart(Mike) and much loved PopPop to Tyler Reece and Gavin Purcell. He is also survived by his siblings, Wayne Johnson (Becky), Chris Johnson (Sandi) and Laurie Estienne (Mickey) and numerous nephews and nieces.

Due to the restrictions with the corona virus a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to Endependence Center, 6300 E. Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23502 in his honor.

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I met Steve at ODU in 1975. We were close friends for many years, lost touch, reconnected, lost touch. I wish I had stayed in his life. I thought of him often through the years, and I am glad he was surrounded by loved ones and was happy. My condolences to his family and friends.

Stephen was my best friend from my teens until I moved from the area in 1985. We reconnected briefly in 1997 when my mother and a good friend of his were in the ICU at the same time. We never connected after that. I have fond memories of growing up and being part of Steve's family. My condolences to all who grieve his loss as I do.

Jill and I lost a close brother in Christ and will be looking to see him again soon. God bless Linda for all the care she gave her husband, all the years of making his life great. Such an example of love itself you both are and always will be to us.

I had the honor of working with Steve for many years. He was a close friend and a mentor. He had a gift for listening and the wisdom to give sound advice. A talented and brilliant man with many passions he worked tirelessly to improve the rights and quality of life for persons with disabilities and social justice for all. Steve made the world a better place and he will be missed by many.

Please accept our sincere condolences in the passing of Stephen. We have always admired the courage he displayed in living with his disability and we will miss him tremendously. Although we mourn his death, we rejoice knowing how happy he now is in heaven, where there is no sadness and broken bodies are no more. Our family will be praying for you! Joan Estienne, Mark & Debbie Estienne, and Taffy Zagorski

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

We grew up together. His brother Wayne was my best friend and he was the best friend of my brother Mac. My brother died in 2016. It was the last time I saw Stephen. I pass alone my condolences to all his family and friends. I have so many great memories growing up as we spent so much time together. Stephen got more out of life and gave more than anyone I know. He and my brother are together now. It will not be long before they form a wiffle ball league and assign averages. Only those from years past will remember that. I cried at first however since then I have been smiling and remembering all the good times we had and we so many. Love you Stephen Jim

Steve was an amazing man. He taught me how to advocate for my son James. He told me never say no and walk away/ Fight for your sons independent life, he deserves it. He showed compassion to his family, his fellow co workers and his participants and The Eagles.. you will be truly missed. God speed , my friend

So sorry, I knew Steve at the Endependence Center where I learned of him and many of the people who worked through their disabilities there. He was an example to all of what can be achieved. He was a hero to many.

A 38 year friendship is truly something to celebrate and this is what I had with Steve. During the 80’s he was not only my supervisor but became my very supportive friend helping me adjust to a full time job, accepting my lifestyle and encouraging me to accept a job in a different city a hundred miles away. We agreed on many things but sometimes, violently disagreed on our professional football teams! In the early years my Redskins came out on top but recently his Eagles have caught up! I will miss you, my friend and colleague, thanks for everything!!!

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.