Larry O'Neal Johnson, Sr.

Larry O’Neal Johnson Sr. was born on November 28, 1954 and raised in Morganfield, Kentucky. He later made his home in Lexington and passed peacefully on April 29, 2025 in Mount Vernon, KY, surrounded by love.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Della and Sylvester “Chuck” Johnson. He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Yumiko Johnson; his children Michael Wilson, Maria Johnson, Laurie Estridge (Zach), Nealy Johnson, Larry Johnson Jr., and Lamont Johnson; his grandchildren Zachery Estridge, Lamont “Monty” Johnson, and Kai Estridge; his siblings Thomas “Tommy” Johnson (Annie), Gloria Sanders, and Marcia Johnson (the late Robert James); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Larry was known for his radiant spirit and booming, celebratory voice — a voice that lit up every room and made even the smallest victories feel unforgettable. He brought joy, humor, and an unwavering sense of pride to his family. His love was steady, his presence reliable, and his heart always open.

A talented athlete, Larry played basketball at Union County High School and the University of Kentucky, where he was among the first African-American athletes recruited from Union County. He was drafted by the Buffalo Braves in the 1977 NBA draft and later played internationally for over a decade in Japan with Matsushita Denki (now Panasonic), where he also coached following his retirement from professional play.

Larry lived in Japan until 1990 before returning to the U.S., where he dedicated himself to his family, coached youth sports, and eventually retired from Trane. He was a loving husband, a proud father and grandfather, a tech enthusiast who always kept up with the latest gadgets, and a man with a heart as big as his smile.

The Johnson family wishes to thank the compassionate staff at Rockcastle Regional Hospital and Respiratory Care Center for their care and support during Larry’s long-term stay.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy and donations may be directed to Rockcastle Regional Hospital and Respiratory Care Center.  https://www.rockcastleregional.org/giving-center/

A celebration of Larry’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 6th at the Clark Legacy Center in Nicholasville, KY. Visitation will take place from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, followed the funeral service at 12:30 PM. Interment will immediately follow at The Lexington Cemetery.