Robert Lee Johnson was born on February 16, 1947, to the late John Levi Johnson Sr. and Rosa Fowler Johnson of Louisburg, North Carolina. He was the eleventh of twelve children. Robert Lee departed this earthly life peacefully at his home in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. As a child, he and his family attended Allen Chapel Baptist Church in Louisburg. He worked hard on the family farm and, when time allowed, attended Franklin County Public Schools. In the early 1960s, his family moved to Raleigh, North Carolina.

Robert Lee grew up on a farm surrounded by a loving family, where he learned the value of hard work and unity. The family raised livestock and grew fruits and vegetables on their land.

After leaving farm work, Robert Lee spent several years working with North Carolina state building services before becoming a Custodial Supervisor for Wake County Public School System. He retired after over 20 years of service.

In 2002, he met the love of his life, Bettie Williamson, and moved to Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and companionship in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. He embraced his role as “Pop Pa” to Bettie's granddaughter, Kayla, whom he loved as his own granddaughter. During retirement, Robert Lee's greatest happiness came from caring for Bettie. Whether through a helping hand, a home-cooked meal, or simply being by her side, he expressed his love in the quiet, selfless ways that meant the most. Retirement also allowed him to enjoy many of life's simple pleasures that he loved, including cooking, listening to music, and caring for their yard. He expressed his love through quiet acts of service and devotion, always putting the needs of those he loved before his own.

Robert Lee found joy in music, cooking, relaxing, dressing well, caring for his vehicles, and riding motorcycles. A longtime James Brown fan, he was a wonderful uncle, partner, and grandfather. He made time for the young people in his life, reminding them they were valued while teaching them to respect their elders. He was always willing to help and made sure they knew they could count on him. When his siblings faced health challenges, he often returned to Raleigh to take them to appointments and help with home repairs and yard work. He loved his family deeply, and they treasure many happy memories with him.

Robert Lee had a generous spirit and was known for his laugh and easygoing nature. He enjoyed talking with friends, fishing, watching the news, and relaxing.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rose and John Johnson; his sisters, Annie P. Johnson, Louise Johnson, Rosetta Jenkins, Lurnder Johnson, Roberta Clifton, Henrietta Johnson, Juanita Johnson, and Christine Johnson; and his brothers, John Johnson Jr., Herman Johnson, and Levi Johnson; Angela Lee, who was cherished as a daughter.

He will be forever missed by his family and friends. His memory will be cherished by the love of his life, Bettie Williamson of Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, his granddaughter, Kayla Shipman (Alisha), nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends. 

We will hold close his spirit and the many gifts he shared with us. 

Rest well Robert Lee.