Desmond Renell Johnson

Desmond Renell Johnson obituary, Hattiesburg, MS

Desmond Renell Johnson

Desmond Johnson Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Lockett-Williams Mortuary, Inc. - Gulfport on Jul. 9, 2025.

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Desmond Renell Johnson was born in New Orleans, Louisiana to the late James Henry Johnson and Deborah Marie Otkins. Desmond spent some of his childhood in Louisiana until his parents moved to Newton Ms. He graduated from Newton High School in 1994.
He joined the United States Air Force in May of 1994. After basic training, he was stationed at Pope Air Force base in North Carolina. He spent six years there and his next assignment took him to Osan Air Force base in Korea. During his time there, he married his wife Laisha. Two children (Austin and Jadin) joined the clan during this time.
After Korea, Desmond was stationed at Keesler Air Force base in Biloxi MS. While in Biloxi Desmond received his Associates of Arts Degree from Ms. Gulf Coast Community College. He spent 6 years there before his next assignment in Yokota Air Force Base in Japan. Before the family departed MS, Julian joined the clan.
Desmond's final Air Force assignment was at Scott Air Force Base in Belleville IL. While there, Desmond continued his education receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Management from Ashford University. He also received a dual Master's Degree from Webster University in Human Resource Development and Management and Leadership. He retired from the Air Force in 2017. Of course, he could not sit down and enjoy retirement so he returned to the workforce joining the Amazon family. He was employed there for 7 years until he finally decided to retire officially.
During his free time, he loved cooking for his family and friends. He considered himself a master chef! He also enjoyed traveling and cheering on the Saints.
He was preceded in death by his father James H. Johnson and his mother Deborah M. Johnson.
Desmond leaves to cherish his memories, his wife of 25 years Laisha Johnson of O'Fallon, IL. His sons, Austin (Priscilla) Johnson of Katy, TX, Jadin Johnson and Julian Johnson of O'Fallon, IL. Grandchildren, Dominic Renell Johnson, Isabella Lee Johnson and Jasper Reed Henry Johnson all of Katy, TX. His loving sister Crystal (George) Crosby of Philadelphia, MS and his niece Miquel Crosby. His cherished In-laws, Anthony and Eunice Crain of Gulfport, MS. Two sisters in laws, Latosha (Michael) Brown of Meridian, MS; Sabrina Ishman of O'Fallon, IL. Two brothers in laws, Travis (Natalie) Graffree and Kino Davis. Also to cherish memories are a host of Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and Friends.
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Sign Desmond Johnson's Guest Book

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July 8, 2025

Derrick Mobley posted to the memorial.

July 8, 2025

Craig Freeman posted to the memorial.

July 5, 2025

Charisma Hall posted to the memorial.

3 Entries

Derrick Mobley

July 8, 2025

In Loving Memory of Desmond "DJ" Johnson

An Incredible NCO, Leader, and Friend

Your impact reached far beyond the uniform you wore. You led with heart, lifted others with your strength, and brought light wherever you went.

Your laughter echoed through every room, and your friendship left a mark on every life you touched.

You will always be remembered - not just for your service, but for the joy, loyalty, and warmth you brought into our lives.

Rest easy, DJ. We´ll carry your memory with pride.

......DMOB

Craig Freeman

July 8, 2025

Desmond was more than just a coworker, he was like an uncle to me. His wisdom and guidance were invaluable, helping me overcome my fears and build the confidence I needed to face life´s challenges. He was an all-around wonderful person, and his absence will be deeply felt. Desmond, you will truly be missed.

Charisma Hall

July 5, 2025

My thoughts and Prayers to the family of Desmond (DJ) Johnson. Coolest manger ever! You will be missed buddy

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Lockett-Williams Mortuary, Inc. - Gulfport

2018 31st Avenue, Gulfport, MS 39501

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Sign Desmond Johnson's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 8, 2025

Derrick Mobley posted to the memorial.

July 8, 2025

Craig Freeman posted to the memorial.

July 5, 2025

Charisma Hall posted to the memorial.