SMITHFIELD—Howard Johnson Sr., 71, died Nov. 30, 2007, in Sentara Obici Hospital.

Mr. Johnson was a native of Isle of Wight County, and was born to the late Percy and Girlie Hardy Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Cora Cofer Johnson; and his sister, Gladys Shivers.

He retired from the Newport News Shipyard in 1994.

In 1998 he began his new episode of life when he married Virginia (Louise) Johnson, who is left to cherish his memory; along with his two sons, Howard Johnson Jr. and Tyrone Johnson (Chris); and his only brother, Sterling Johnson (Gladys); his step-children, Ramona Waire (Michael), Camille Hicks (Pam), and Linda Smith (David); a host of grandchildren; and great-grandchildren; family and friends.

A funeral service will be held noon Thursday at the First Gravel Hill Baptist Church, Smithfield, by the Rev. P.D. Wells.

Interment will be in the church cemetery. The remains may be viewed today from 1 to 7 p.m. at the Shivers Funeral Chapel and one hour prior to the service at the church.

For further information, call 357-9500. Shivers Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.