On Tuesday evening, March 29, 2016, God called one of his children home. That child’s name was Joseph Thomas Johnson, Sr. (Affectionately known as “Baby Ray”.)He was born on January 2, 1936 to the late Foster Leroy Brown, Sr. and  Louvenia Johnson and reared in Rocky Point.

He was educated at Pender County Training School in Rocky Point. Later on Baby Ray moved to Brooklyn, New York where he became a chef, employed across from the twin towers.

Baby Ray, later married his childhood sweetheart Rosie Mae Crews. They were blessed with four children: Aundra, Catrina, Joseph Jr. and Linda.

It doesn’t stop there, after Baby Ray lived in New York , he moved to Philadelphia. He then realized it was time to move back to where he loved, so he and his family relocated back to Rocky Point.  He became employed with the Department of Transportation, and then because of his best friend George Whitehead, he was fortunate enough to become employed with State Ports Authority. After retiring from there, he became employed with Waste Management. Baby Ray then later returned to his first love, cooking.  He cooked for many friends and family.  He had a love and heart for people.  There was nothing he wouldn’t do for anyone.  He could always be counted on and always sacrificed himself for others. He was once known in the community as “Paul Revere”.  

Baby Ray loved his wife, his children and especially his grandchildren but most of all he loved helping people.  What best describes this man: Selfless.

In addition to his parents, Baby Ray was also preceded in death by Three Brothers:  Benjamin A. Brown; Foster Leroy “Sonny” Brown; Jr.; Clarence David Johnson; and One Sister: Earlene Johnson.

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