Earl Martin Johnson was born on December 2, 1942, at Harlem Hospital in New York City, the beloved firstborn child of the late James Johnson and Frankie King Johnson. Raised in a nurturing and faith-filled environment, Earl attended schools within the Catholic School System, graduating from Cardinal Hayes High School and later enrolling at Manhattan College. Driven by a sense of duty, he left college to enlist in the United States Army, where he served honorably and received an honorable discharge.

Following his military service, Earl worked at Lenox Lanes Bowling Alley, where he made lifelong friendships. He later dedicated many years to the New York Department of Finance, ultimately retiring from the department.

Earl was a man of many interests. He enjoyed playing polka, solving crossword puzzles, tackling the jumble, and capturing life through photography. Yet, his greatest passion was chess. Known for his skill and dedication, Earl participated in numerous chess tournaments, frequented chess clubs, and played in local city parks. In his later years, he became a fixture at his neighborhood park, playing chess nearly every day. His mastery of the game earned him the affectionate nickname, "the Chess Master," among local players.

Earl is preceded in death by his parents, James and Frankie Johnson; his brothers, Howard Johnson and Vincent Johnson; his sisters, Gail Crouch and Cynthia Johnson; and his nephew, Derik Vincent Johnson.

He leaves behind his devoted partner, Cheryl Alexander; nephews, George (Eddie) Crouch, Tyron Crouch, Quincy Crouch, Lance Crouch; niece, Tory Crouch; cousin, Patricia King Lovell; goddaughter, Charmelle Ackins; and a host of other cousins and friends. Special friends Anthony Alexander and George Alexander were more like brothers to Earl, sharing in his journey and memories. Earl's legacy is one of love, kindness, and a passion for the game of chess. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.