In Loving Memory of Dr. Larry James Johnson

October 27, 1949 - July 31, 2025

Dr. Larry James Johnson passed away suddenly on July 31, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, learning, and unwavering devotion to family and community.

Born in Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas, Larry was the son of Vernon and Dovie Johnson and grew up in Independence, Missouri. A proud graduate of William Chrisman High School, Class of 1967, he lettered in cross country and track, showcasing the determination that would define his life.

Larry attended the University of Missouri-Columbia, where he pursued a degree in Electrical Engineering. It was there, during his junior year, that he met Deborah Anne Garwitz, a freshman whose presence changed his life forever. Their love was immediate and enduring-they were inseparable for two and a half years before marrying on December 16, 1972. Larry affectionately called her "Deb," a name that echoed through every chapter of their life together.

Larry began his professional career as a loss prevention engineer with Lumbermens Mutual Casualty Company, traveling across the U.S. and Canada inspecting lumber mills. After a transfer to Ann Arbor, Michigan, Larry felt called to shift his path from engineering to business. He returned to Kansas City to pursue an MBA at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), and with Deb by his side, embarked on a new academic journey.

Encouraged by a professor to continue his education, Larry was accepted into the Doctoral program at Indiana University in Bloomington. There, he earned his Doctor of Business Administration in 1980. A highlight of their time in Bloomington was cheering on the legendary 1976 IU basketball team, which went undefeated under Coach Bobby Knight.

Larry's academic career began at Michigan State University, where he served as an assistant professor. During their time in East Lansing, Deb and Larry welcomed their first daughter, Sarah, in 1983-a joyful beginning to their growing family. In 1984, he accepted a position at the University of Tulsa to be closer to family. Two years later, Deb and Larry welcomed their second daughter, Ashley-a moment that completed their loving family of four. Larry remained at TU for 33 years, where he served with distinction and was honored with the title of Professor Emeritus upon retirement-a recognition of his lasting contributions to the university and its students.

One of Larry's most cherished professional experiences was a sabbatical year from 1990 to 1991, when he worked for Swiss Bank Corporation and taught at the University of Basel. He and Deb moved their young family to Switzerland, traveling often and embracing the opportunity to explore Europe together. Among their favorite destinations were the Matterhorn, Lucerne, Zermatt, London, and Stonehenge-each place leaving a lasting impression and becoming part of their shared story. During that time, Larry also contributed to a special project with P.R.P. Performa, a financial services company based in Vaduz, Liechtenstein-an experience that broadened his international perspective and deepened his appreciation for global finance.

Larry was deeply involved in his daughters' education, volunteering at Marquette School as a girls' basketball coach and serving on the school board. After retiring from TU in 2017, he continued to give back by teaching math and science in the Adult Education program at Catholic Charities-a role he considered his most rewarding, as he witnessed students achieve their GEDs.

Above all, Larry's greatest joy was his family. He adored his daughters and found immense pride in his three grandchildren: Ryder Christian, Callie Christian, and Drake Shelley. Whether fishing, canoeing, playing games, or cheering at sporting events, Larry was a constant source of love and laughter.

A passionate sports fan, Larry followed Mizzou, IU, the Tulsa Golden Hurricane, the Kansas City Royals, and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Larry is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Deborah Anne ("Deb") Johnson; his brother, Garry Johnson of Lebanon, MO; daughters Sarah Christian (Justin) and Ashley Shelley; and grandchildren Ryder Christian, Callie Christian, and Drake Shelley. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Dovie Johnson of Macks Creek, MO.

To honor Larry's memory, donations may be made to Breakthrough T1D https://www2.breakthrought1d.org/site/Donation2?2376.donation=form1&df_id=2376&mfc_pref=T or Catholic Charities https://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/