RC Johnson

RC Johnson lived a life grounded in four enduring commitments: education, service, faith, & family. Those commitments guided his choices, shaped his character, & defined the legacy he leaves behind.

RC was born to Robert & Ella Johnson in Edwards, Mississippi, & grew up on his family’s farm, where his father worked as a farmer. Those early years instilled in him a powerful work ethic, humility, & a deep understanding of the value of opportunity. From the fields of his childhood, RC developed a belief that education was the surest path toward growth, independence, & a better future.

He carried that belief with him as he pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from Alcorn State University & later a PhD in Education Administration from the University of Minnesota. Education was not simply his profession; it was his calling, & it became the foundation of both his career & his family’s extraordinary story.

RC began his career as a mathematics teacher in Drew, Mississippi. He later moved to Minnesota, where he joined Minneapolis Public Schools in the early 1970s. Over the course of more than three decades, he served as both teacher & administrator in the Minneapolis and St. Paul school districts, touching countless lives & shaping the futures of students, families, and fellow educators.

His leadership & dedication did not go unnoticed. In 1988–1989, RC received the NAACP Leadership Award from the Southwest Suburban Branch. In 1991, he was honored as NAACP Principal of the Year by the Minnesota Suburban Branch. In 1997, he was formally recognized for 25 years of service with Minneapolis Public Schools — a milestone that reflected not only longevity, but excellence.

Education remained central to RC’s life beyond his own career. He was one of fourteen siblings who all earned college degrees, a remarkable family achievement recognized in the 1996 Guinness Book of Records under the category “Most graduates in a family.” For RC, this was not about recognition. It was about what education made possible for each generation that followed.

Alongside his professional work, RC was deeply committed to his community. In Minnesota, he served on the Board of Directors of the Courage Center, an organization devoted to empowering individuals with disabilities. His service there was formally recognized in 1992, reflecting the same steady dedication he brought to every role he accepted.

RC was also a man of faith who served in the church for many years. His faith was not something he spoke about often; it was something he lived through quiet leadership, steady presence, & an unwavering willingness to help others when they needed it most. He loved having people in his home, and his house was often filled with family, friends, & extended relatives. Whether welcoming loved ones for extended stays or gathering people together for a backyard barbecue, RC took joy in creating a place where others felt comfortable, cared for, and at home.

Of all the roles RC held in his life, the ones he treasured most were husband, father, & grandfather. He shared a devoted life with his wife, Queen, whom he met while both were teaching in Drew, Mississippi. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, & unwavering support. He was deeply proud of his children & found constant joy in his grandchildren, Elijah and Levi, whose lives were brightened by his gentle spirit & dependable presence.

RC passed away peacefully at his home in Plymouth, Minnesota, on January 4, 2026, at the age of 81. Though his passing leaves a deep absence, the impact of his life continues through the many people he taught, guided, encouraged, & loved.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Queen; son, Raoul C. (Joanna), & their children, Elijah & Levi; his daughter, Joanna (James); brothers, Carl (Michaele), Emanuel (Lydia), WC (Everlyn), & HC (Barbara); sister, Evelyn; many nieces, nephews, extended family members, & friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Johnson Sr. & Ella Loren Marshall Johnson; brothers, Henry, Robert Jr., Walter, Bernard, & Nathaniel; sisters, Marilyn, Earlean & Mary.

RC’s life stands as a testament to what is possible when one person commits fully to education, service, faith, & family. His legacy will continue to shape the lives of generations to come.

Funeral service honoring RC and his life were held Monday, January 19, 11 AM at Evans-Nordby Funeral Home. Visitation was Sunday, January 18, 5–7 PM, and one-hour prior to the service. 

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred.

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