Anthony Lowe “Rudy” Johnson was born on February 17, 1975, in Overton, Texas. He was raised in the Elm Grove and Pine Hill communities, places that remained near and dear to his heart throughout his life.
Rudy was the firstborn child of Debra Ann Johnson and the son of the late Garland Dene Nelson. He attended Rusk High School and later graduated from New Summerfield High School.
Rudy was a loving, cheerful, and caring person who was always willing to lend a helping hand to someone in need. He enjoyed listening to his music, singing, dancing, joking around, and simply having a good time with the people he loved.
Above all, Rudy loved his family. He shared a special love and connection with his family throughout the Elm Grove and Pine Hill communities. No matter where he saw you, if you were family, you could count on being greeted with his familiar, “Hey cuz, how you been doing?” It was simply Rudy’s way—warm, genuine, and always making sure family knew they were family.
Rudy was also a friend to many. His cheerful personality, sense of humor, and friendly spirit allowed him to form many friendships throughout his life. Whether he was joking, laughing, singing, dancing, or just enjoying the company of others, Rudy had a way of making those around him feel welcomed.
He was preceded in death by his father, Garland Dene Nelson; grandparents, Mr. James and Clara Johnson; aunts, Pearlie Cleaver, Martha Anderson, and Verna Lee Cartwright; and uncle, Sherley Smith.
Rudy leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Debra Johnson; sisters, Becky Johnson (Ruben) and Kim Johnson; brothers, Waymond “Cheezy” Johnson (Mia) and Jimmy Johnson; bonus brother, Gary Hill; aunts, Joanne Jefferson of Rusk, Texas, Nevon Lacy of New Summerfield, Texas, Carolyn Freeman (James) of Rusk, Texas, and Tammy Gordon (Phillip) of Bullard, Texas; uncle, Tim Johnson (Carla) of Lewisville, Texas; along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, extended family members, and many friends.
He also leaves special friends Calvin White, Miky White, Jerry Lacy, Dametrick Acy, TaMicka Fleming, and ZaNiah Fleming to cherish the memories and friendship they shared.
Rudy’s laughter, love for his family, and familiar “Hey cuz, how you been doing?” will be deeply missed, but fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.
Funeral Service Information:
Public Viewing
Friday, August 21, 2026
10:00 a.m. - 4:00pm
Mercy/McGowan Funeral Home
415 N. Main St.
Jacksonville, TX 75766
Funeral Service
Saturday, August 22, 2026
11:00 a.m.
Mt. Olive Baptist Church
215 Collins St.
Rusk, TX 75785
Interment:
Planview Cemetery
Ponta, TX
