Nelson Leon Johnson, 94, of Tulsa, OK, passed away peacefully in his home on May 19, 2025. Born in Mountain View, OK on April 16, 1931 he attended school in Mountain View and Sedan, OK for most of his education. He graduated from Capitol Hill High School in Oklahoma City and joined the Airforce shortly afterward. He proudly served as a crew chief during the Korean war. After completing his service time, he returned home and attended college. He graduated from Central State University in Edmond, OK with a degree in Industrial Arts. Nelson worked as a commercial roofer in Oklahoma City and after moving his young family to Tulsa, he started his own roofing business that he successfully operated for many decades. Nelson also owned several commercial warehouse office spaces in Tulsa. Nelson loved his family and focused on homelife as his top priority. His favorite pastime was being outside working in his garden, swimming and spending time in the backyard oasis he created.
Nelson was preceded in death by his mother Eva Johnson, brothers Dean, Paul, Ralph, Kenneth and sister Lucille and his son, Nelson. He is survived by one brother, Robert.
Nelson is also survived by his wife, Linda Johnson, children Tamra Bird and husband Hank, Tracy Copeland and husband Mike, Katherine McCorkle and husband Bruce. His eight grandchildren include Tyler Bird and wife Britani, Clay Bird, Casey Argo and husband Dilon, Carly Bautiste and husband Carlos, Carter Copeland, Michael Copeland, Trevor Davis and Gaven Davis and two great grandchildren, Mila Bautiste and Henry Bird.
Nelson will be remembered for his sparkling blue eyes, sense of humor, strong and gentle spirit and love for his family. His favorite thing to say was that all he needed was A Kind Word. He always joked about every day being a holiday and that he lived in Paradise. His humor was a gift to everyone who knew him.
Friends and family are invited to Nelson's Memorial service on June 4, 2025 at 2:00 in the afternoon. The services will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Tulsa located at 709 S. Boston Ave. If you order an arrangement for the service, please have floral deliveries made directly to the church.