William Johnson

William L. "Bill" Johnson, age 64, passed away February 7, 2011 of an apparent heart attack. Born in Kingsport, Tennessee, he attended Lynn View High School, East Tennessee State University, and University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He earned degrees in both chemistry and chemical engineering. At the time of his passing, he resided in Durham, NC, where he had worked for almost four decades as a Professional Engineer for the U.S. government's Environment Protection Agency. He was recognized as a national expert in volatile organic compound policy in the ozone air quality management program.

His family and friends will remember Bill for his intellect, his understated wit, and his gentle spirit. He was an avid reader, a published writer and a constant student of all things interesting. Hobbies included art, music, and swing dancing. Church activities included active participation at the Chapel of the Cross, in Chapel Hill, NC. Over his career he was involved in several professional and social organizations.

He is survived by his brother Eddie Johnson and sister-in-law Terry; aunts Eva Johnson, Floy Johnson, Helen Johnson, Margaret Johnson, Geneva Milburn, Iva Nell Milburn, and June Milburn; nephew Will Johnson; niece Sarah Reinfelder and her husband Shane, and their children William, Kaylin, and Valerie.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 3 pm at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. Visitation will be from 1 to 3 pm prior to the service. The family requests no flowers. Interment will be at Holston View Cemetery in Weber City, Virginia. Those wishing to may meet at the gravesite on Sunday, February 20, 2011 at 2:00pm.