Charlie Gene Johnson, 77, of Festus died Thursday, Aug. 15, at his home. Mr. Johnson was a retired salvage manager for General Motors. He was a member of the Jefferson County Rodeo Committee, the Missouri Quarter Horses Association and was a founder of the Circle H Saddle Club. He is remembered for being an extraordinary horseman who often shared his knowledge with others, for being a phenomenal longtime show judge for the Jefferson County Queen contestants and for being a good friend. Born May 8, 1947, in Clear Lake, Ark., he was the son of the late Christine (Hargett) and Charles C. Johnson.
He is survived by his wife: Dianna (Smith) Johnson; a daughter: Michelle (Trevor) Forness of St. James; a stepdaughter: Erica Crady of Festus; two brothers: Jerry (Debbie) Johnson of Franklin, Ky., and Phillip (Wanda) Johnson of Texas.
He was preceded in death by two children: Kerri Johnson and Jimmy Johnson; five siblings: Margaret “Sally” Norman, Lela “Joy” (the late John) Seidl, Mitchell Ray Johnson (Mary Kay of Festus survives), Billie Todd Johnson and James “Jack” (Minetta survives of Farmington) Johnson.
Visitation is scheduled from 4 p.m. until services at 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus. Burial will be in Rose Lawn Memorial Gardens at a later date. Mr. Johnson had a love for horses and all they can do to help children. Memorials may be made to the MQHA Charities, c/o Dr. Pam Downing, 700 S. Rangeline Road, Columbia, MO, 65201. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.