FORMER HARVEY, IL MAYOR AND RETIRED SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE PROFESSOR DAVID N. JOHNSON PASSES AWAY AT AGE 72

David Nathaniel Johnson
David Nathaniel Johnson

FORMER HARVEY, IL MAYOR AND RETIRED SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE PROFESSOR DAVID N. JOHNSON PASSES AWAY AT AGE 72

     On behalf of the family of David Nathaniel Johnson, it is with deep sadness that we announce he transitioned to heaven Saturday, May 15, 2021.
     As we navigate this painful journey of grieving, we stand in total gratitude – giving God all the glory & praise for His favor on David's life of nearly 73 years. We stand in complete gratitude for the enduring impact David made in our lives, his extended family, as well as the legions of people he reached as a lifelong servant leader.
     David's legacy lives on through his beloved wife Bonnye Johnson of 26 years; his devoted daughters Naima and Iman; his siblings; and his abiding love for the Black community.
     David was the first Black mayor of Harvey, IL – serving three consecutive terms for 12 years and a professor for 36 years of African History, African American History, Political Science, Sociology, and Urban Studies at South Suburban College, serving as department head and teaching over 10,000 students. Throughout his retirement, David continued his service to the community.
     A lifelong student, David deeply valued education throughout his life. He'd proudly tell you that he was a Wildcat as a graduate from Thornton Township High School, where he was later inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame.
He was also a proud Bison and a graduate of Howard University, and a passionate advocate for HBCUs. David received his graduate degree in Political Science from Rutgers University.
     David indeed was our ancestors' wildest dreams, and he exemplified excellence in everything he did. We thank everyone for your love of David, the prayers for our family, and the words of encouragement.

Latest Stories

Latest Podcast

STARR Community Services International, Inc.