Robert L. “Bud” Johnson

Robert L. “Bud” Johnson, 89, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on June 29, 1937, in Lawrence, Kansas, Bud was the son of Kenneth N. Johnson and Erma M. (Holladay) Johnson. He graduated from Lawrence High School in 1955 and remained a proud Lawrence resident throughout his entire life.

Bud lived a life defined by faith, service, devotion, and love. A godly Christian man, he faithfully served the Lord throughout his life and was deeply involved in his church and church camp ministries. For most of his life, he attended Central United Methodist Church and later Indian Hills Church of God and Lawrence Free Methodist Church where he formed many lasting friendships through church fellowship and Sunday School classes. In recent years, he attended First Southern Baptist Church. His church families and the many friends he made through those congregations were a cherished and important part of his life. Whether volunteering his time, encouraging others in their faith, or lending a helping hand, Bud’s servant heart touched countless lives.

Bud was proud to have served his country in the United States Army, a commitment that reflected the values of duty, honor, and service that guided him throughout his life.

He was also especially proud of his career as a letter carrier with the United States Postal Service, where he dedicated more than 35 years of service before retiring in 1999.  Bud took great pride in both his work and the friendships he built throughout his career. He was respected for his strong work ethic, integrity, and dedication to serving his community.

Beyond his work and ministry, Bud enjoyed leatherworking and creating handcrafted items that reflected his patience and craftsmanship. More than any hobby, however, he treasured time spent with his family. He found his greatest joy in being a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

On March 9, 1958, Bud married the love of his life, Dorothy “Dot” (Carey) Johnson. Together they shared 68 wonderful years of marriage, building a home centered on faith, love, commitment, and family. Following his retirement, Bud and Dot enjoyed spending time at Bennett Spring State Park in Missouri and making trips to Branson and Silver Dollar City, places that held special memories from years of family vacations with their children.

In addition to his wife, Dot, Bud is survived by his children, Robin (Johnson) Jacobsen of Lawrence, Kansas, Marc Johnson and wife Jessica of Lenexa, Kansas, and Brad Johnson and wife Ida of Lawrence, Kansas; his brother, Fred Johnson of Lawrence, Kansas; his sister, Ellen Franklin of Kansas City, Missouri; 11 grandchildren and many grandchildren spouses; and 7 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Erma Johnson, and his brother, Jerry Johnson.

Bud will be remembered for his unwavering faith, humble spirit, gentle kindness, strong work ethic, and deep love for his family. His life was a testament to God’s grace and faithfulness. The example he set as a husband, father, grandfather, friend, neighbor, veteran, and servant of Christ will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know him.

Services will be held Saturday, August 8, 2026, at First Southern Baptist Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to gather to remember and celebrate Bud’s life.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to First Southern Baptist Church, 4300 W 6th St, Lawrence, KS 66049 or the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23