Andrew Earl Johnson, Sr.

Andrew “Andy” Earl Johnson Sr., a dedicated public servant and passionate advocate for Jacksonville, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2025, at the McGraw Hospice Center, holding the hand of his loving wife of 49 years, Mary. He had fought valiantly against a cruel disease, Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, for many years.

Born and raised on the family farm, Dinsmore Dairy, in North Jacksonville, Andy attended Paxon High School before pursuing higher education at Dartmouth College. It was at Dartmouth where he met Mary, his lifelong partner. Upon returning to Jacksonville, Andy was elected as the youngest member of the Florida House of Representatives in 1978. His legislative achievements include the establishment of hospice care, the implementation of mandatory seat belt laws, and securing funding for the Dames Point Bridge.

After earning his law degree from the University of Florida College of Law, Andy continued his commitment to public service by producing and hosting the radio talk show “Down to Business with Andy Johnson,” which aired for over a decade.

Above all, Andy cherished his role as a father and grandfather. He is survived by his son, Drew, and his wife, Kristen; his son, Daniel; and his daughter, Kate, and her husband, Winton. He was the proud grandfather of eight grandchildren, whose visits brought him immense joy and comfort during his illness.

Andy was preceded in death by his parents, Nell and Earl Johnson, and his sister, Carolyn. The family expresses deep gratitude for the kindness and support extended to Andy and Mary during his illness.

As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Andrew “Andy” Johnson Sr. may be made to Brooks Neuro Recovery Center through the Brooks Foundation. Donations can be mailed to: Brooks Foundation, 3599 University Blvd. S., Jacksonville, FL 32216, or made online at www.brooksrehab.org/donate.

A celebration of Andy’s life will be held at Palms Presbyterian Church in Jacksonville Beach at 11:00 am on Monday, June 16, 2025.