Will Otis Johnson

Obituary For Will Otis Johnson

Visitation for Will Otis Johnson of Babson Park is Saturday February 21, 2026, from 11:00-12:50 p.m. at Abundant Believers Church, Winter Haven. Service will begin one hour past noon.

It is with deep love and heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved father on February 15, 2026, at his home. He was born on February 4, 1946, in Arkansas, and lived a life defined by strength, devotion, faith, and unconditional love for his family.

He met the love of his life, his wife, Gloria Johnson, who preceded him in death, and together they built a strong and loving union, raising five children: Will Johnson Jr; Lisa Hawthorne, spouse Pastor Gregory Hawthorne; Josephine Johnson; Denise Ezeagu; and Spirit Drinkard, spouse Dirk Drinkard. He was also the proud father of two children born before his marriage, Barbra Peyton and Preston Thomas.

His legacy continues to live on through his children; 10 cherished grandchildren: Stefon Hawthorne; Gregory Hawthorne Jr., spouse Lakayla Hawthorne; Nausha Hawthorne; Stedman Hawthorne; Desire Riley; Brian Drinkard; spouse Sarah Drinkard; Michael Drinkard; Garrett Drinkard; Infinity Drinkard; and Anthony Williams; and 11 treasured great-grandchildren: Stefoni Hawthorne; Savannah Hawthorne; Skai Hawthorne; Gregory Hawthorne III; Maddison Hawthorne; Jaxson Hawthorne; Aalani Burgess; Lukas Drinkard; Clara Drinkard; Kyree Lewis; and Jaylen Lewis—each of whom carries a piece of his spirit forward.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his daughters, Lisa Hawthorne and Denise Ezeagu; and his siblings, Georgia Mae, Lena Mae Miller, and Johnny Johnson. He is survived by his sibling, Elizabeth Johnson.

He was a hardworking and determined man who took great pride in providing for his family. Over the years, he worked many jobs with dedication and perseverance, never afraid of hard work. His determination and entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to own and operate his own scrap metal company, a testament to his resilience and commitment to building something meaningful for his family. After retirement, his faith deepened, and he grew closer to God. He followed his calling and found purpose in serving others, sharing his faith, and uplifting those around him.

He found joy in life’s simple blessings. He loved being outdoors, spending time with family, enjoying good food, and being at home surrounded by those he loved. His presence brought strength, wisdom, and comfort, and his love created a foundation that will continue to guide his family for generations.

Though he is no longer with us physically, his legacy, love, and faith will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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