I, Lee Anthony Johnson, aka Big Bubba was born July 3, 1951 to the parents of Laura Lee DeBerry Johnson-Eure and James Anthony Johnson in Norfolk, Virginia. My family and I were members of Rising Sun Baptist Church for many years. I was educated in the Norfolk School System, graduating from Booker T. Washington High School, Norfolk VA, class of 1970. During those days, everyone wanted to sing so my friends and I formed a group. We called ourselves “The Mellow Moods”. Well, we did not get the contract we hoped for, but it was not because we were not good enough; it was not God’s will. I developed a love for music at an early age and continued to further my education, earning a BA degree in Music from Saint Augustine College, Raleigh, North Carolina, and a Master of Arts in Music Education from Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN. Some would say I was a musical genius, some would call me a brilliant musician, I would simply say, I loved music. Brass instruments were my forte with a fondness for the French horn and Trombone. My side axe was the piano. So, I went on to become Band Director for Texas Southern University in Houston, TX and Assistant Band Director for Elizabeth City State University. After leaving the collegiate venue, I started to teach music in the school districts in North Carolina and Virginia. With my Christian upbringing, I have always had a love for the church. I was the Sunday morning musician for several local churches in the Norfolk Area.
On October 8, 2020, I left my earthly family as my son sat next to my bed side holding my hand, letting me know that I was not alone. He is that way, you know. So now, I play in the heavenly choir; I am not the best pianist here, but I suppose I do okay.
I leave behind my dear Sister, Brenda Heard “Cakey” (Raymond) You were a good big Sister. You were always there for me, no matter what. I know I was a pain in the butt; but somebody had to do it! My twin brother, Lee Andrew Johnson (Tennie Bubba); keep the Johnson name strong my brother. You’re the man of the family now. My son Timakai Evans (Rashonda-Fiancee), I couldn’t ask for a better son. You were always so concerned about me. All the endless trips back and forth to check on ‘Dad’. I’m okay now son. Thank you for your love. My son Jeffrey Charity, I wish things could have been different for us. You were always in my heart. I also leave some beautiful nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends and my life-long friend Arlene Evans.
I was not a perfect man, but I was the best man I could be. I am sure I could have done may things different but one thing for certain and two things for sure: If you love someone, Tell Them!
I am gone from this body, but we know "To be absent from the body is to be present with The Lord"
2 Corinthians 5:8