Roy Mitchell Johnson, age 91, of Gladys, Virginia, passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2026.

Born in Pittsylvania County, Roy was the son of the late Clarence Lee Johnson and Sallie R. Johnson. He was preceded in death by two sons, Mike Johnson and Joe Johnson; four sisters, Dottie Moye, Peggy Moon, Nancy Johnson, and Lucy Rollison; and two brothers, Sam Johnson and Ralph Johnson.

Roy is survived by his loving wife, Deborah Wise Johnson of the residence; two sons, Gary Johnson and Bill Johnson and wife, April, of Gladys; three daughters, Gail Tatum of Lynchburg, Sally Johnson of Rustburg, and Shelby Johnson of Gladys; two sisters, Gracie Brown and husband Jim of Waynesboro and Mary Hudgins of Bedford; one brother, J.C. Johnson of Grit; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and friends .

Roy lived a life defined by hard work, determination, faith, family, and an unwavering love for the land. A lifelong farmer, he dedicated countless hours to the fields he cherished and the farm that remained the center of his life.

Those who knew Roy knew a man who never quit—a man whose strength of character was matched only by his devotion to his family, friends, and animals. His resilience, kindness, and quiet strength earned the admiration and respect of all who knew him. Roy's story is one of perseverance in the face of unimaginable challenges and serves as a lasting example to future generations. Roy chose a different path through an extraordinary will to keep moving forward. He continued farming, caring for his family, and pursuing one of his greatest passions: training Border Collies. His remarkable skill with dogs earned him national recognition, and he traveled throughout the country competing, judging, demonstrating, and teaching others. Through his innovative training methods and natural connection with animals, Roy became a respected figure in the dog training community and inspired countless people who witnessed what determination could accomplish.

Yet, for all his accomplishments, Roy will be remembered most for the kind of man he was. He had a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and loved. He was strong and hardworking, but he was also quick with a smile, a joke, and a laugh. He enjoyed good company, family gatherings, stories shared around the table, and time spent with the people who mattered most. Whether caring for his family, tending his dogs, or working the farm, Roy gave his whole heart to everything he did.

His presence felt as permanent as the land he walked on, and his absence will be deeply felt in the fields he loved, the home he built, the dogs he trained, and the family who loved him so dearly.

He laughed often. He loved deeply. He worked tirelessly. He was, in every sense of the word, a legend.

After a lifetime of tending the farm, training dogs, and caring for those he loved, Jesus called Roy home with the words he knew by heart: "That'll do, Roy. That'll do."

The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, support, and kindness during this difficult time.

Graveside services will be conducted 11:00 a.m. Saturday, June 6, 2026 at Gretna Burial Park by Rev. Jason Andrews.

Colbert-Moran Funeral Home, Gretna is assisting the family.  Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.colbertmoran.com