Taylorville, IL - Russell Eugene Johnson, Jr., of Taylorville, passed away at St. John's Hospital on June 8, 2026. He was born on July 23, 1958, in Danville, the oldest child of Russell and Deanna (Miller) Johnson, Sr.

"Rusty" graduated from Bismark-Henning High School in 1976. Throughout his life, he built a career centered on hard work, service, and connecting with people. From running his own floor care business, managing restaurants and gas stations, to driving motor coaches across the country, he never met a stranger and truly enjoyed getting to know and helping others.

Russ was married to Dianne Sandbakken from February 1981 to May 1991. In 1993, he married Martha (Sewing) Johnson and together they shared 32 wonderful years of marriage, creating a uniquely blended family full of love.

Russell was a strong man of faith who cherished staying connected to family and friends, traveling, and cheering on the Chicago Cubs. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his charisma, vibrant laugh, storytelling, and unconditional love.

He is survived by his wife, Martha Johnson of Taylorville;

Children, Russell Johnson, III, of Vandalia, Chad Johnson of Litchfield, Melanie (Cress) Irvine of Hillsboro, Adam Cress of Las Vegas, NV, Miranda Johnson of Pawnee, Michael Johnson of Taylorville, and Marissa Johnson of Kalamazoo, MI;

Grandchildren Kalista, Bailey, Liam, Caylum, Chloe, Emily, Anna, Jackson, and Zeal;

He also leaves behind his siblings, Ronald Johnson, Randall Johnson, Sr., Roy Johnson, Sr., and Risa (Johnson) Langdon;

Many beloved nieces and nephews including Randall, Jr., Amanda, Shawn, Adrienne, Roy, Jr., Robert, Cameron, Isabella, Darlynn, Johnathan, and Jillian.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents Russell Eugene Johnson Sr. and Deanna (Miller) Johnson, and his brother, Richard Johnson.

Funeral services will be held Monday, June 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at Hough-Dean Funeral Home in Hillsboro, with Rev. Christopher Prumm officiating. Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., at Hough-Dean. Interment will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery in Hillsboro.