Raymond James Johnson

Raymond Johnson, 83, of Manchester, died peacefully on Monday, October 9, 2023.  He was born on February 8, 1940 in Hartford. One of nine children of the late Norman Johnson and Helen (Roche) Johnson. 

Ray was a baker at Finest and Strohman’s Bakery in East Hartford. His children have fond memories of visiting the bakery and bringing home cupcakes and baker’s hats. After he retired, he continued his career part time at Stop & Shop’s Bakery in Manchester. 

Ray was an avid bowler and bowled in leagues all of his life. He never missed an opportunity to bowl, even if it meant walking or biking from Hartford to Vernon! He passed down his love of bowling by teaching all of his children and most of his grandchildren how to bowl. He enjoyed spending time with his family, playing cards, and watching sports such as golf, football (Go Giants) and baseball (Go Red Sox). At family gatherings he was the grillmaster, the turkey carver and the one to lead the family Bonanza card game. 

Ray is survived by his children; Judy & David Sawtelle of Vernon, Michelle & Thomas Smith of Manchester, Shawn & Heather Johnson of Manchester, his grandchildren; Allison, Alex & Austin Sawtelle, Carter Johnson, Clara & Evelyn Smith and his former spouse Karen Johnson of Manchester. His siblings; Alice Oliver, Kenny and his wife LouEllen Johnson, Stanley and his wife Valerie Johnson, Debbie Vallier, Sue Johnson, Robert and his wife Lynette Johnson, along with many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his son, Steven Johnson, his brothers, William Johnson and Richard Johnson, and brother -in-laws Robert Oliver and Howard Vallier.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a time of visitation at Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home, 400 Main St. in Manchester on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 from 10:00 am-12:00pm with a service to celebrate his life to begin at 11:30 am. Burial will be at East Cemetery, Manchester following the funeral service. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association.

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