Obituary: Terry Wade Johnson, Devoted Servant of God

Beloved husband and tireless community leader has passed away at 90 years old.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Terry Wade Johnson, a lifelong minister who dedicated over 70 years to serving God and his community, has died at the age of 90. Johnson's remarkable life was marked by a deep faith, tireless work ethic, and unwavering commitment to evangelism, education, and outreach. He pastored numerous churches across the South, founded a Christian school, hosted a long-running radio program, and pursued a diverse array of vocations to support his ministry.

Why it matters

Terry Wade Johnson's life exemplified the values of service, sacrifice, and steadfast faith. As a bi-vocational pastor who wore many hats, he left an indelible mark on his community through his tireless efforts to spread the gospel, support youth, and meet the needs of the less fortunate. His passing marks the end of an era for the region's religious community.

The details

Born in 1935 in Arkansas, Johnson felt a calling to the ministry from a young age. After surrendering to God's call in 1954, he embarked on a lifetime of service that included pastoring churches, hosting a radio program, founding a Christian school, and pursuing a wide range of vocations to support his work. Johnson's ministry was defined by his 'boots-on-the-ground' approach, as he regularly visited nursing homes, jails, and youth camps to spread the gospel. He also physically helped construct new church buildings with his own hands.

  • Terry Wade Johnson was born on May 2, 1935 in Woodberry, Arkansas.
  • He surrendered to God's call to preach on April 21, 1954 at Antioch Baptist Church in Conway.
  • Johnson married the love of his life, Sue Ring, on May 12, 1956.
  • He received his Doctor of Divinity at the age of 48.
  • Johnson passed away on February 9, 2026.

The players

Terry Wade Johnson

A devoted servant of God, beloved husband, and tireless community leader who dedicated over 70 years to ministry and service.

Sue Ring

Terry Wade Johnson's wife of 70 years, with whom he embarked on a lifelong journey of marriage and ministry.

Freddie and Pauline (Reddin) Johnson

Terry Wade Johnson's parents, who raised him in Calhoun County, Arkansas.

Chris Garrett

The officiant who will preside over Terry Wade Johnson's funeral services.

Elvis Presley

A high school friend of Terry Wade Johnson's, who referred to him as a 'very good friend'.

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What they’re saying

“The newspapers are going to say that Terry Wade Johnson has died. Don't you believe it! I'm very much alive and with my eternal Saviour!”

— Terry Wade Johnson (whiterivernow.com)

“Just think of all the crowns he has to lay at the feet of Jesus!”

— Sue Ring, Terry Wade Johnson's wife (whiterivernow.com)

What’s next

Funeral services for Terry Wade Johnson will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 2 p.m. at the Concord Missionary Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until the service time.

The takeaway

Terry Wade Johnson's life was a testament to the power of unwavering faith, tireless service, and a deep commitment to community. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him, as well as future generations seeking to emulate his example of selfless devotion to the gospel and to helping others.