Phillip Earl Johnson
Phillip was born in San Fernando, California to Leslie and Mabel Johnson on July 27, 1938 and passed away in Lancaster, California on February 20, 2017 at the age of 79 1/2. He has lived in the Antelope Valley for 68 years, majority of those on the Eastside. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, great uncle, cousin, and friend to many. Phillip attended elementary school in Chatsworth, CA before moving and attending Antelope Valley High School.
Phillip was involved in Eastside Little League and Eastside Antelopes 4-H. He was a ranch hand and a farmer off and on for over 50 years. He loved horses, always had at least one to ride or talk to. His favorite family entertainment was watching his children play and coach Little League, his sons play football and baseball all through school and his daughters cheer them on. He enjoyed listening to country music and singing country songs. He sang at both of his daughter’s weddings, to his wife at their 25 year vow renewal, and many other family events.
Preceded in death by his loving wife and soulmate of 61 years, Martha, their son, Larry Johnson and their grandson, Phillip Van Sambeek. Also his dad Leslie, his step mom Hannah, and siblings, Charlotte Apuzzo, Gordon Johnson, Mary Dee Totans, Irving Johnson, Gene Johnson, Lenora Johnson, , William Asbury, Harold Asbury, and Marvin Asbury. Phillip is survived by his step brother James Asbury, children: Phyllis (Ed) Van Sambeek, Wayne Johnson, Matt Johnson, Debi (Zeke) Foster; grandchildren: Aaron (Candace) Van Sambeek, Tina (Greg) Little, Brandee Knego, Missy (Dana) Gendron, Nikki Van Sambeek, Amanda Jones, Krista (Joe) Foster, Keisha Johnson, and April Foster. Great-grandchildren: Dominic, Izac, Danielle, Elizabeth, Brandon, Courtney, Joshua, Dolan, Evelyn, Arabella, Madison, Warren, Braxden, Brody, Samantha, Tabitha, Breanna and in-laws: Dorothy (Joe) Starks, Abe Ortega, Paul (Susie) Ortega, James (Vicki) Johnson. Also Erica Aberle and many nieces and nephews. He touched many lives and will be greatly missed.