Obituary of Thomas M. Johnson Jr.

Thomas Maxwell Johnson, Jr. 7-5-1941 to 8-15-2023 Thomas M. Johnson Jr. of Youngstown, NY, passed away peacefully on August 15th , 2023 at home. He was the son of the late Thomas M. Johnson Sr. and Marjorie Johnson. Tom grew up on the west side of Buffalo, graduated from Riverside High School and attended college at the University at Buffalo, majoring in Anthropology and Archeology, his two loves. After graduation, Tom spent a brief time in the Air Force before going to work at Dunlop. He worked there for over 40 years until he retired. He wore many hats at Dunlop but primarily was involved in testifying as an expert in civil trials involving Dunlop tires. In addition to his duties at Dunlop, Tom was a councilman for the Town of Cheektowaga for 38 years, helping citizens at all hours of the day or night. One of his most satisfying accomplishments was being involved in the planning, siting, and building of the Walden Galleria Mall, ensuring that it didn’t infringe on critical wetlands in the town. He also had a very soft spot in his heart for the War of 1812 Cemetery located in Cheektowaga and the Flag Day Parade he sponsored each year. Tom was a volunteer firefighter for many years, serving in many capacities, including Chaplin for a time. He only gave it up when his other duties took too much time. In what little spare time Tom had, he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and tending to his “creatures”, the menagerie of turtles, tortoises, fish, and other exotic animals that held his interest. Tom is survived by his wife Barbara, his daughter Jennifer Smith (David), His brother Richard (Lee), and his two grandchildren, Natalie, and Eric. He is also survived by his niece Heather and his nephew, Reverend Michael Johnson. No services will be held, Burial will be in Oakland Rural Cemetery in Youngstown, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom’s name to the Cheektowaga Historical Association. or the Buffalo Zoo. Arrangements entrusted to HARDISON FUNERAL HOMES INC.