David Lee Johnson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David Lee Johnson, who left us on April 2, 2026, at the age of 69. David was a longtime resident of the Northwest Georgia and Chattanooga area.

David was born on September 17, 1956, in Montebello, California. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie P. and Norma E. (Enge) Johnson; his brothers, Lanny Johnson and Darrel Johnson; and his sister, Norma Davis. He is survived by two brothers, Larry Johnson and Peter Johnson; and three sisters, JoEllen Johnson, Janice Holland, and Dorene Johnson, all of California.

David is also survived by three stepchildren: Gary Lacey Jr. of Ringgold, Georgia; Ellen Money of Chattanooga, Tennessee; and Rachel Earley of Chatsworth, Georgia; twelve grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and his long-term friend, Kaye Walker.

David was a devoted fan of music, especially the Beatles. He understood better than most that, in the end, “the love you take is equal to the love you make.” He spent countless hours with a guitar in his hands or writing lyrics on napkins. Music was David’s way of connecting with the world.

If he wasn’t playing music, you could find him in the garage. For seven years, every Sunday was dedicated to the restoration of his 1972 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. It was a “long and winding road” to get that car back on the pavement, but the journey was the point.

This project was never just about the car; it was about seven years of Sundays spent side by side with his stepson, building a bond that was as durable and polished as the car itself. That Corvette remains a lasting symbol of David’s patience, craftsmanship, and commitment to the things he loved.

David was a respected massage therapist for many years in the Chattanooga, Tennessee, area. He owned his own business and dedicated his work to helping others feel better in both body and spirit. David took pride in easing pain, offering comfort, and creating a sense of calm for those who trusted him with their care.

In keeping with his unassuming nature, there will be no formal services. David would have preferred that his loved ones remember him by turning up the volume on a good song or taking a drive on a clear afternoon. We find comfort knowing he is now somewhere the sun always shines and the music never ends.

In lieu of flowers or formal services, those who wish to honor David’s memory are invited to make a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.