The Houston Fire Department recently announced the sudden death of John Johnson, a longtime firefighter and active community volunteer. Johnson died after a year-long battle with cancer Tuesday, April 13.
“He defined public servant,” Houston Fire Chief Christian Hartley said.
Hartley said that Johnson died just two days after his 68th birthday, taking everyone by surprise. He said Johnson’s sad and untimely death will be felt across the community he served for many years.
“He was able to be home when he passed but it was rapid. I mean, Saturday he was talking to people and joking with people, and Tuesday he was gone,” Hartley said.
Hartley said that firefighters had been helping around the house during Johnson’s final days and it happened to occur during a training day, so they were able to notify the department right away.