Brooks Steven “Steve” Johnson, passed away on January 5, 2025, in Rock Hill, South Carolina, at the age of 77. Born on May 17, 1947, in Charlotte, North Carolina to Brooks Ralph and Catherine Wilborn Johnson, Steve led a life filled with devotion to his family, faith, and passions.
Steve was married to the love of his life, Sara Jane Simpson, for 56 wonderful years. Sara Jane preceded him in death only weeks earlier, in December 2024. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising two children, Carrie (Drew) Felty and Michael (Amanda) Johnson, and cherishing their adored grandchildren: Rowan and Liam Felty, and Coby, Connor, and Cole Johnson. He is also survived by his sister, Kathy Johnson Louvaris, brother-in-law Al (Sherrie) Simpson, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A proud graduate of Duke University, Steve earned his bachelor’s degree in political science in 1969, as well as a master’s degree in business administration from the University of South Carolina in 1978. Steve dedicated most of his professional life as a Systems Analyst for Springs Industries in Lancaster, SC, pioneering advancements in early computer programming to develop payroll software that was used by many businesses throughout North America.
Continuing a proud family tradition of military service dating back to the American Revolution, Steve served in the Army for three years. While stationed at Okinawa, Sara Jane was able to join him and they began their life together. This period was a chapter close to their hearts and they both fondly recalled the lifelong friendships forged during this time abroad together.
Steve’s love for music, particularly bluegrass, was a lifelong joy. He could often be found picking his banjo, riding his Honda Silverwing to concerts throughout the Southeast, or singing with joy in the Grace Lutheran Church choir. An enthusiastic supporter of Duke University sports, Steve was a true “Iron Duke,” with an encyclopedic knowledge of the athletes and coaches, and an unwavering commitment to attending football and basketball games, rain or shine, always staying until the final second.
A celebration of Steve’s life will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Grace Lutheran Church, 426 Oakland Avenue, Rock Hill, SC. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org.