Leonard Michael Johnson (Catfish)

Leonard Michael Johnson, affectionately known as "Catfish," passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025, in Decatur, leaving behind a legacy filled with love and joyful memories. Born on May 6, 1948, in Dallas, Leonard was a man who embraced life with open arms, dancing through its storms and celebrating its beauties. His spirit was as vast as the lakes he cherished, where he spent countless hours fishing, finding solace and serenity.

Leonard was not just a lover of music and nature, but also a deeply faithful man who lived his life with conviction and purpose. His warm heart extended to all he encountered, including animals, whom he adored as part of his vibrant world. Music flowed through him; it was the soundtrack of his existence, weaving through the fabric of his daily life, enhancing the joy he shared with family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved daughters, Kim Trotter and her husband James, and Karey Johnson, who remember him as a guiding light in their lives. Leonard’s grandchildren—Savannah, Edmund, and Drake—and his cherished granddaughter-in-law, Bettina, carry forward his legacy of love and laughter. He was a proud great-grandfather to Emmitt and Atticus, whose little hands and big dreams mirrored his own youthful spirit. Leonard also leaves behind his brothers, Jimmy and Johnny Johnson, and his sisters, Billie and Gwen, each of whom shares the fond memories of a brother whose laughter lit up the room.

Although he touched the hearts of many, Leonard had a unique relationship with his family, particularly his grandchildren and daughters, but it was always borne of love and a desire to see them thrive. His wisdom and caring chastisement were the cornerstones of his relationships, reminding them of the importance of faith, integrity, and kindness.

Leonard was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy Johnson; parents, Buford Johnson and Ora Jeanette Johnson. Though he has departed from this Earth, his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. Each fishing trip, each song that plays, and each soft breeze that rustles the trees will remind us of Catfish—a peaceful soul who loved deeply, cherished life, and spread joy to everyone he met. He will forever be missed but never forgotten.

but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40-31

All flowers and cards should be sent to the residence  of Kimberly Trotter