Obituaries

William Ray “Bill” Johnson, of Fort Thomas, age 81, went to his heavenly home on Monday, January 12, 2026 at the VA Medical Center. He was a proud Marine Corps veteran.

He was born on February 18, 1944 to Charles Ray Johnson and Mary Ann (Martin) Johnson. In 1961, after attending Highlands High School and Campbell County High School, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps until 1966. He married Peggy Holder in 1969. He worked as an electrician and heating and air conditioning over several decades. Bill enjoyed UK basketball and loved attending his son’s and grandchildren’s sports and school events. He served on the Highlands Bluebirds Cannon Crew. He held great love for all his dogs and even, most recently, Milie, the cat.

He proudly served as “Pap” to his grandchildren, Trent and Katie.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings.

Bill is survived by his wife, Peggy, his son Todd (Tricia) and his two grandchildren, Trent and Katie, all of Fort Thomas. Visitation will be held Tuesday, January 20, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Muehlenkamp-Erschell Funeral Home in Fort Thomas with memorial service immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Fort Thomas Education Foundation (www.ftef.org), 2504 Memorial Parkway, P.O. Box 75090, Fort Thomas, KY 41075 or Hosea House (www.hoseaserves.org), 901 York Street, Newport, KY 41071.