Obituary of John A. Mathis

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John A. Mathis Johnson was born the eldest of two children to the late Lillie Kate Mathis on July 20, 1942 in Belle Glade, Fl. Before migrating to Rochester, Lillie married Lucine Johnson whom John was raised by in his formative years. At his earliest ages, even at four and five years old, John became an entertainer often performing for local patrons at the family store.

John moved to Rochester, NY around 1946 and attended primary schools in the Rochester City School District at #’s 9 and 14. Graduating from Madison High School. Before graduating he fathered a son, John Lyman. It was shortly after graduation that he married his high school sweetheart, Lucy Mae Smith. To their union, Carmen, Steven, Kenneth and Pamela Johnson were born.

He continued his talent and love for music in several local groups including Johnny Johnson and The Bandwagon. In pursuit of a Motown record contract, John toured the United States and United Kingdom for eight years. During the extended time in the United Kingdom he fathered a son, Nevin Riches, the two reconnected in recent years.

Upon returning to the U.S. and his hometown, he worked in various jobs of service including driving for the school bus company. Additionally, he became a member of Faith Temple church under the leadership of Bishop Jerry McCollough, whom was also a childhood friend.

After battling an extended illness at Highland Hospital, John went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 2, 2023. He will always be remembered as a leader in search of the next great adventure.

He is predeceased by mother, Lillie Kate Slater and son, Kenneth Johnson. He leaves to cherish his memory, three sons, John Lyman, Steven Johnson and Nevin Riches; two daughters Carmen Johnson and Pamela Johnson; one sister, Denise Johnson; special cousins, George GW Walton (Brenda), and Bernice Rose; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.