Back to Obituaries Holloway Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. | Durham, NC

Thomas Gregory Johnson

08/20/1951 - 09/07/2026

Obituary For Thomas Gregory Johnson

Thomas Gregory "Greg" Johnson was born on August 20, 1951 to the late John Calvin "JC" Johnson and Glossie Mae Pratt Johnson, the second oldest son. He was born and raised in Durham, NC. He was a proud graduate of the Hillside High School class of 1969. After high school Greg entered the US Marine Corps. Following his military duty, he worked as a clerk and union shop steward for the US Postal service for over 10 years. Throughout his life he worked alongside his father and brothers as a part of JC Roofing, Heating and Air.

Thomas or "Wine" as he was known by many, was known to be the life of the party. And he was always the caterer for his own party because he loved to "throw down" in the kitchen and especially on the grill. He loved tailgating at his beloved NCCU eagles games. Wine also loved hosting events at his home for his beloved HHS Class of 1969.

Thomas departed this life quietly at home on September 7, 2026. He was preceded in death by brothers Frankie Johnson and Terry Stephens. He leaves to cherish his memory children, Michael, Tawanja, William "Puggy", LaTrice, Carmen, Qu'Rita Shavonne, John Chris "TJ", and Crystal; siblings, Calvin (Monica), Amy Diane, Wayne (Kimberly) and Ida Johnson; fiancé, Thea Royal and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Funeral Service:

Monday, September 14, 2026
Visitation:12:00 Noon
Funeral:1:00 PM

Location: New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church | 2508 Crest Street | Durham, NC 27705

Interment: Tuesday, September 15, 2026, 11:00 am, Salisbury National Cemetery.

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Condolences & Tributes

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My deepest condolences and Affectionately known as'Wine' My family always made sure that I knew we were Real Kin♥️ I'm going to always cherish the good times and that smile that made you know you was okay fly high Cuz fly Eagle High to the most High!!!

Christina Rice

My condolences and prayers are for the Johnson Family 🙏🙏. May "WINE"R.I.H. He was a nice person,had lots of good times with him 🙏🌹

Dede Williams

Johnson Family: My thoughts and prayers are with you. Had the pleasure of meeting Wine in 1972 when I first arrived in Durham. He was always very cool, nice and kind. Whenever I would see him anywhere around, he always had the same persona. I last saw him when he was tail gaiting at the Eagle/Aggie Classic last year and he willingly offered to share his food as he always did. May the precious memories of Wine comfort you and help to ease your pain because I know they will live forever in your hearts. Also, asking God to wrap His loving arms around each of you in the days ahead. More prayers, many hugs and much love to all. God Bless. Take your rest Wine.

Diane Cox

Greg, rest in peace, my good friend. Rest in peace.🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

Lennis Harris, Sr.

To the Family and Friends of Mr. Thomas Johnson affectionately know as "Wine". We send Heartfelt Sympathies and Condolences to the Family. "Wine" played cards at the Bull City Riders' Motorcycle Clubhouse for years and attended a many Holidays Events hosted by the Bulls. "Really going to miss you old friend".

On behalf of the Bull City Riders' Motorcycle Club, Durham, NC.

Joyce Gooch

Thomas....Wine and I were in the same homeroom from Shepard Junior High until we graduated from Hillside in 1969! Our friendship was special and then our bond deepened when we became family through marriage. A man who loved life and enjoyed sharing with friends! Crystal and Carmen....God blessed you both and you used your skills to serve and honor your Dad!! My love and prayers to both of you, his siblings, family and those who loved him dearly.....Wine....you lived life to the fullest and you have finished your course ...as you were a joy on earth you will be remembered always as you REST!!!

Rev. Dr. Phyllis Joyner

Phyllis Joyner

Condolences to the entire Johnson Family. We've known you all our entire lives from Mr Tom building our house, then Mr Chris and all his sons maintaining HVAC, Gutter, Roof. To this day always there for us when needed. Greg you introduced me to Phonso over 40 years ago. RIP Greg we knew you as Wine. Doris, Van & Teresa Howard

Teresa Howard

Hey "wine", fellow Vietnam Vet, you will be missed. Truly a cool dude.

Mike Floyd

Thomas was a very kind man who had special feelings for my two dogs. May he rest in Heavenly Peace. Sending my prayers for his family. Cathy

Cathy Jones

Cousin Wine,you truly will be missed. You worked so hard for our family reunion down right to the weekend of, we celebrated you as well there. Working with you and you truly was about your family and business,we will miss you and coming to our meetings at your house,woo the fish frying,baked beans,I can go on and on. Get your rest,Love you cousin. Cousin Asia

Asia

Thea, and Family my deepest condolences to you. May your unwavering love and support yield Peace that surpasses All understanding.Continue to Trust God for He will keep you all. Betty

Betty Bell

Family, there are no words to express that would employ what an Awesome Guy Mr. Johnson (Wine) were. Meeting him had a lingering effect, whether his truth in words, smile or his gentleman behavior. Truly he will be missed and my condolences extend beyond just this moments but prayers of comfort forever. Blessings upon each of you who loved him for he was loveable. Kindly, BettyBell

Betty Bell

Wow!! We all will miss you.we all enjoyed you company, full of fun and laughter.Take your rest and you will never be forgotten ❤️ Cousin Barbara webb Edwards 🙏

Barbara webb Edwards

As coworkers, we often spoke about our daily responsibility to God, our usps employer & our family. These kept us focused & grounded over the years. 'A very nice person' May God Bless he & his Family

Michael Clemons

The P&D Joyner Family Tree send our prayers, condolences and hugs to our cousins Carmen and Crystal on the passing of their father. We love You ❤️❤️

Mary Joyner

Condolences and prayers are extended to our classmate, Amy Johnson in remembrance of her beloved brother. The Hillside High School Class of 1972

Mary Joyner

It brings sadness to hear of Wine's passing. His family was the go-to house painters for our community . Wine always kept a cool, helpful spirit about him. Never rushing, always in control. I pray God's ever-present Spirit comforts and consoles the family during this time.

Robert "Shorty" Rivers.

Greg and I traveled many roads together from exploits in Durham to the streets of NY where we worked and enjoyed "the city so nice"! He enjoyed family and friends. The memories of him will flood our thoughts but rest in the promise of eternal salvation. Until we meet again.....rest Wine!

James horton

Rip Cuz I will miss you and the good the times we shared .

Sandra Dawson

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.