Leonard F. Johnson
Oconee Enterprise
Friday, August 5, 1927
Page One
Editor Johnson Taken By Death
Hon. L.F. Johnson, editor of the Oconee Enterprise and Senator from the 27th district, died at his home here Thursday morning after several weeks illness.
Mr. Johnson is survived by his wife, Mrs. Maggie Johnson; two sons, Ferdinand, 17, and J.W., 13; one daughter, Miss Mildred, 18; and a large circle of family connections.
Funeral services were held Friday afternoon at 3:00 o'clock from the Watkinsville Methodist church, Rev. J.W. McWhorter, of Winder officiating. Masonic rites and interment in the Watkinsville cemetery.
Oconee Enterprise Friday, August 12, 1927
Page One
Tribute
"For some we loved, the lovliest and the best That from his vintage rolling Time has past, Have drunk their cup around or two before, And one by one crept silently to rest"
The death of Leonard F. Johnson occurred at his home in Watkinsville, August 4, 1927. Without murmer or complaint he stood at his post and bore his suffering till it was not possible to go longer. For months after he was stricken with fatal malady he continued to publish the Enterprise, not once complaining of illness. He worked till the very last of his strength was exhausted, and when at last he fell upon his bed it was but to wait for the final summons.
A member of the State Senate, he planned till the last to attend; but took his bed the week the Legislature convened.
A member of the town school board, he took active part and interest in the affairs of the school as long as he was able to walk. He planned to live and planned for others as it was possible and not once did his closest friend or associate hear from him one expression of gloom or doubt. In living in dying he set an example worthy to be followed.
In nature "Ferd" Johnson was sympathetic and kind. No case of human suffering or misfortune failed to touch his heart. His prompt expression of feeling for the distress of others was in striking contrast with the silent, stoic endurance of his own suffering. His was truly a rare nature that suffered more for others than for himself.
Sincerity and loyalty were traits of character that marked him. Governed and guided always by sincere conviction, motives of policy never spoken, though considerate of opinions of others, his position was the right, he stood loyal and fearless to the last. Victory he always accepted with grace that healed the wounds of the opposition, while defeat was attributer to the Providence that somehow "shapes our ends rough hew them as we may."
His home life was beautiful. The kindest, most affectionate husband and father - no impatient word passed his lips. He gave to his family full measure, of a husband's and father's love and affection.
While the widow and three children mourn his death, to them there must be much of consolation in contemplating his example and character.
For "No life can be pure in its purpose and strong in its strife, and all life not be purer and stronge thereby."
