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.