Theodore Johnson

Theodore Johnson age 79 of Toledo, Ohio passed away on February 26, 2026. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio on March 24, 1946 to Allen Moses and Theodosia Johnson.

Theodore Johnson enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he played baritone in the military band. Gifted in music, he also taught at Karamu House in Cleveland, Ohio—recognized as the nation’s oldest African American theatre. In addition to his musical work, Theodore delivered for Ray’s Sausage, worked as a mechanic for the Cleveland Transit System (CTS), and later drove a cab. He went on to join Greyhound as one of the company’s first Black male bus drivers. He later became a Greyhound bus driver instructor, a role he held until his retirement.

Theodore had a lifelong passion for music and was especially skilled on the baritone and trombone. He not only loved playing, but also enjoyed listening to music—often seeming to study and appreciate its individual elements as he listened. He loved marching bands and took great pride in his ability to play multiple instruments. He also enjoyed bowling and competed in bowling league tournaments. Above all, Theodore cherished his family. He filled his home with photographs and keepsakes, surrounding himself with visual reminders of the people he loved—items he could see, hold, and treasure.

Theodore will be remembered most for the love, care, and protection he gave to his family. Though he was not always highly social and became more introverted later in life, those closest to him knew the depth of his heart and the strength of his devotion. He had a witty, charismatic sense of humor, and his stories and laughter were contagious—often bringing smiles and laughter to everyone around him.

Surviving is his daughter, Chelahnnhe Veraughn Lyons; son, Theodore Allen Johnson, son: Brandon Rashawn Johnson, stepdaughter: Marquita Tameca Mauldin, and daughter: Jasmine Janee Johnson; sister, Jane Alston; and brother, Douglas Johnson; grandsons, DeVaunte Lyons and Dahvie’ Lyons; step-grandsons, Lonnell Johnson, and Marquell Mauldin; granddaughter, Naomi Johnson and great-granddaughter, Za’Vahni Lyons

He was preceded in death by his mother, Theodosia Johnson; and father, Allen Moses Johnson; brothers, Allen (Abdul Salaam El Razzac) Johnson and Clarence Johnson.

Services for Theodore will be private.

Psalm 127:3-5

3 Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.

4 As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.

5Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.

Father knew how to make a brass instrument breathe unique, Assembling different notes like puzzle pieces until complete. Did we become his greatest composition, his melody— Because once we were all together, it felt in tune with harmony.