Samuel Al Johnson was born on February 20, 1929 in Pampa, Texas. He was the second of four children born to Johnie and Jessie Lee Johnson.
His parents separated when he was quite young. His mother moved to Los Angeles, California and remarried. His stepfather, Leroy Westbrooks, had a great influence on his upbringing.
Sam attended Manual Arts High School. He then enlisted in the Army and served in both Korea and Vietnam. His specialty was 'Surface to Air' Missiles (SAM). He retired from the Army after 20 years of service.
A few months after his military retirement he moved to Chicago. There, he gained employment with the State of Illinois Department of Human Services, which he retired from after 22 years.
Surviving Sam is his beloved wife of 32 years, Kathleen (Campbell); his brother, Joseph Westbrooks; and his sister, Audrey Westbrooks.
He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his mother, Jessie Lee Westbooks; his father, Johnie Johnson; his stepfather, Leroy Westbrooks; and his brother Nathaniel Johnson.
Sam's favorite hobby was wood working. He enjoyed making useful objects around the house. He created a wooden scaffold the could be raised and lowered to different levels and a wooden plant rack with shelves and lights. He also designed many other useful items.
A visitation will take place on Tuesday, May 29th, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Christian Funeral Home, 3100 W. Irving Park Rd. Chicago, IL, with a funeral service immediately to follow. Burial will take place at Montrose Cemetery, 5400 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60630.
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