Richard Johnson Obituary
Richard Jay Johnson, "Moose" 77, of Toms River, NJ, formerly of Shrewsbury, NJ, passed away at home on Friday, November 8, 2024. He was born to Samuel and Marie Johnson on December 18, 1946, and raised in Shrewsbury. He remained there after marrying the love of his life, Barbara, in 1972 where they raised their three children, Lori, Kari, and Erik. In addition, he was a volunteer fireman and employed as a police officer in his hometown before retiring in 1998 as a Sergeant. He loved serving his community, especially interacting with the children.
Richard earned an associate's degree in criminal justice. During his 30 years at the Shrewsbury Police Department, he was recognized for his heroism and bravery by receiving the 200 Club of Monmouth County's Valor Award. His family is extremely proud of his dedication. Richard's brother, David, being nine years younger, looked up to him for his service. Richard's decision to join the police force was strongly influenced by his time in the US Army.
Richard, born the fourth child out of five, was a prankster from the beginning. He was always ready to make someone laugh with one of his silly jokes. He wore his heart on his sleeve and genuinely wanted everyone around him to be happy and feel loved. His laugh was so recognizable and contagious. Saying he was a great man is an understatement. Moose was well-known and respected throughout Shrewsbury and beyond. He always knew someone no matter where he went. Everyone always had a humorous story or something nice to say about him. He was the best at every role he held throughout his life. The impact he had on others will live on forever, especially through his children and grandchildren. The highlight of Moose's retirement was being a "MANNY" to his grandchildren. He just adored them and had a special relationship with each one. Moose was the type of father children dream of. He was there in every aspect of his children's lives. There's nothing he wouldn't do for them. He spent over 30 years coaching his children and grandchildren in baseball and softball. Besides his family, dogs and baseball (Go Yankees!) were what Moose loved most in this world. To know him was to love him.
Moose was predeceased by his parents Samuel and Marie (Robbins) Johnson, sister Patricia Strong, twin brothers Samuel Jr. and Lawrence, his angel grandbaby, Antonio Jiosne, and the several doggies who held a special place in his heart.
Moose is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Barbara (Merrick), his three children: daughters Lori Cushing (Daniel), Kari Johnson (Dennis Jiosne), son Erik Johnson (Bridget), his five grandchildren: Kaitlin Cushing (J'mire Sinclair), Emily Cushing, Luke Cushing, Dylan Johnson, and Paityn Johnson; brother David Johnson (Liz); his pup Charlie and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A viewing for family and friends will be held at John E. Day Funeral Home, Red Bank, on Friday, November 15, 2024, from 4-8 pm, with a ceremony beginning at 6 pm. A funeral service will be held on Saturday at 10 am at John E Day Funeral Home, followed by a procession to the Presbyterian Church Cemetery on Sycamore Avenue, Shrewsbury. Please join the family for a repast at the Shrewsbury Hose Co Fire House, Hwy 35.
Instead of flowers, Moose's family would appreciate donations made in his name, to the Monmouth County SPCA (MCSPCA) located at 260 Wall St, Eatontown, NJ.
