Bradley Monroe Johnson

Bradley Monroe Johnson, 55, of Topeka, passed away at his home September 22, 2014 after a long battle with cancer. He was born September 25, 1958 in Wichita, Kansas to Monroe and June Johnson. Brad's family moved to St. Louis, Missouri when he was 5 years old and he lived there most of his life, graduating from Pattonville High School in Maryland Heights, Missouri. Brad worked at Anheuser Busch in St. Louis for 24½ years and was a Master Brewer. Brad moved to Topeka in 2004. He worked at Innovia Film and at Menards as a part-time morning stocker since that store opened in 2012.

Brad was regarded by all who knew him as a genuine, honest and caring person. A stranger didn't feel like a stranger for long around Brad, because he had a way of communicating that made everyone want to confide in him, knowing they could do so without being judged. He loved being an Usher at First Baptist Church and he always had a huge smile and warm handshake for everyone he met. His inspiring words of wisdom always left people believing they could get through hard times and achieve their objectives. Every family member knew his affection, good humor, playfulness, compassion, love and generosity. Brad was patient with all of us, a bit stubborn, but fiercely loyal. His children and every grandchild will always remember his gentle unconditional love for them and he always told them that he loved them each time he saw or spoke to them on the telephone. He carried himself with dignity, confidence, bravery and strength. Brad was always positive and many people were not aware that he had cancer or any illness at all.

Brad, you will always be deeply loved and your influence on us will be there for the remainder of our lives. May your everlasting life be filled with joy and happiness while you wait for the rest of us to join you in the Kingdom of Heaven. We know your ever present warm, friendly smile and contagious laughter will be cherished there as it always was here on Earth. We are grateful knowing you are present in our daily lives and that you will continue to help guide us, though we may not be able to easily see and hear you. We know you will be watching over all of us until the time we come to join you through our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Bradley is survived by his wife Susan and his four children, Melissa Payne, Jennifer Johnson, Matthew Johnson and Michael Johnson; his mother; a sister Elizabeth Moran and 7½ grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his uncle, Michael Mitchell, his father, Monroe Johnson, and all of his grandparents.

A funeral service will be held Saturday September 27, at First Baptist Church, 3033 SW MacVicar at 11AM. Visitation will be held for two hours 9am to 11am prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Hospice of Topeka or to First Baptist Church.