**In Loving Memory of Bernard (Ricky) Johnson**

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Bernard Johnson at the age of 64. Bernard left us unexpectedly at his home in Newton, Massachusetts. Born in Nesmith, South Carolina, he moved to Massachusetts at a young age and spent most of his life as a beloved resident of Lynn before relocating to Newton just last year.

Bernard was the cherished son of Carrie Murkison and the late McKever McCellon, and the beloved stepson of the late Aaron Murkison. He had a deep and unwavering love for his family and a lifelong passion for working on cars. Bernard worked for the most part of his life as an auto body repair mechanic and was known for his generous spirit—always willing to lend a hand, whether it was helping someone move or assisting with odd jobs. His true passion, however, was cars. He could tell you the make and model of any vehicle in an instant, and his knowledge of automobiles was nothing short of extraordinary.

Beyond his skill with cars, Bernard had an infectious sense of humor. He had a talent for finding humor in any situation, and you couldn't be in his presence without hearing a joke or two—or three. He loved making people laugh, and if there were a Guinness World Record for the most jokes ever told, Bernard would undoubtedly hold the title. Though we will miss him dearly, we know he would want us to remember him with a smile, not sadness, as we celebrate his life.

Bernard is survived by his daughter, Rikki-Lee Johnson of Manchester, NH; his sons, Jordan Leonard Johnson of Boston, MA, and Malik Bernard Johnson of Lynn, MA; his grandchildren, Kaliyani Prak, King Prak, and Rylee Mendes, all of Manchester, NH; and his sisters, Ruemell McCloud of Nesmith, SC, Stephany Arnold of Waltham, MA, Antoinette Johnson of Salt Lake City, UT, and Layle McCellon Rivers (David Rivers) of Lynn, MA. Preceding him in death are his brothers, Eugene Porcher, Bertell Porcher, and his twin brother, Leonard Johnson; as well as his sisters, Queen Esther Johnson Jennings and Doris Deland McCellon. Bernard also leaves behind his dear aunt, Ora Wallace, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly.

A celebration of Bernard's life will be held at Goodrich Funeral Home, 128 Washington St., Lynn, MA 01902, on [Date], from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, including a time for viewing. After the funeral, the family will gather at the Community Brotherhood, 15 Coburn St., Lynn, MA.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who come to honor Bernard's memory. In lieu of flowers, any monetary donations to help support the family would be greatly appreciated during this time. Thank you so much for your love, kindness, and support as we remember Bernard's remarkable life.