Roy Chester Johnson

Roy Chester Johnson, lovingly known as Chester, entered eternal rest on June 19, 2023, at the age of 80, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a profound impact on all those who knew him. He was born on August 30, 1942, in Owensboro, Kentucky, the beloved only child of Roy Chester Johnson, Sr. and Mary Nora Priest.

At a young age, Chester’s family relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana, where they found a home with his Aunt Mildred Woodard and her 8 children. This close-knit environment allowed Chester to forge lifelong friendships with all his cousins who were like brothers and sisters. In 1959, he graduated from Shortridge High School in Indianapolis and immediately answered the call to serve his country as a U.S. Marine.

He displayed remarkable aptitude as a Military Policeman and machinist during his postings in Alaska and California. It was during his service that Chester discovered his exceptional skills with his hands, an innate ability to unravel the inner workings of machinery. He could fix anything. This thirst for knowledge and his relentless work ethic became the foundation for his successful career in major companies such as Link Belt, Allison, UPS, and the Chevron corporation.

In 1965, Chester married the love of his life, Annie Lois Harris, whom he had secretly admired since they were 13 years old. He then proceeded to spoil her for the next 58 years. They both dedicated their lives to the Lord, and they attended Indiana University Purdue University and pursued careers as real estate agents. Chester’s passion for construction led him to become a general contractor. Together, they raised two sons, John and Timothy, and welcomed Terry Ayers and so many others as members of their family.

They were faithful and active members of the church. In 1975, following the guidance of their pastor, the late Dr. Rosemary Cosby, the family moved to Salt Lake City. Inspired by Dr. Cosby, Chester and Lois embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, establishing their own mortgage company. In 1988, United Security Financial launched and became the only African American owned direct lender in the nation. Through the company, they helped thousands of families achieve the dream of homeownership and set them on the path to prosperity. They also trained and gave many workers an opportunity to have lucrative careers in the mortgage industry.

In addition to his professional success, Chester pursued his passion for fashion by opening Masterpiece Fashions, a distinguished men’s clothing store in downtown Salt Lake City. Known for his impeccable style, he provided customers with custom suits and fine apparel, leaving a lasting impression on those who sought to look their best. Chester’s talents extended to the realm of construction, where he built numerous homes in the Salt Lake City area, including his own beautiful family estate. It became ground zero for all family events.

Despite his accomplishments, Chester always put his family first. After long days of work, he would return home and gladly mow the lawn or wash the cars, eager to ensure their happiness and well-being. Described as a good listener, and friend, his wife and many family members sought his wisdom and timely advice. Above all, Chester cherished the titles of husband, father, grandpa, and great grandpa. He had a way of making everyone feel special.

Roy Chester Johnson’s strong faith in God and his gratitude for life’s blessings were evident to all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and integrity.

His memory will be forever treasured by his loving wife, Dr. Annie Lois Johnson of Boca Raton, Florida, his sons, John Johnson (Katrina) of Boynton, Florida, Timothy Johnson (Amanda) of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Terry Ayers of Owensboro, Kentucky, his grandchildren, John Johnson, Jr. (Jessiann) of Salt Lake City, Utah, Lauren Hite of Salt Lake City, Lo’Roya  Johnson of Salt Lake City, Jennifer McClellan (Rico) of  Coral Springs, Florida, Ava Bush and Orlando Martinez of Salt Lake City, and Justin Williams of Deerfield Beach, Florida, as well as a host of great-grandchildren and loved ones.

Chester is also survived by close cousins William “Bill” Earl Hampton, Purdle Hampton, Jr, Nanette “Cookie” Johnson, Beverly Lucille Owens, LaVerne “Teddy” McDonald, and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends will forever cherish his memory.

He was proceeded in death by his mother, Mary Nora Priest and his father, Roy Chester Johnson, Sr., his great grandson, Branden Carlos Currie, Jr., and his close relatives James Thomas Hampton, Donald Edward Hampton, and Frank Elton Hampton.

In lieu of flowers, the Johnson family suggests donations to Roy C. Johnson Memorial Homeownership Assistance Fund at the ATWINDS Foundation Inc, a 501(c)(3) corporation. The fund helps first time homebuyers in purchasing property.

Donations can be made through the following platforms:

• ATWINDS Foundation Inc. – https://www.givelify.com/donate/MTUxNDM4MQ==/donation/amount
• Zelle – [email protected]

The Johnson Family sincerely appreciates your kindness and generosity.