Dr. Ben D. Johnson

It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Dr. Ben D. Johnson on August 6, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on November 26, 1944, in Laneville, Texas, Ben's life was marked by love, service, and an unwavering commitment to family and community. Dr. J was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Nelda, with whom he shared a remarkable 64-year journey of love and partnership. This journey began when they married at the tender age of 18, after four years of courtship. Together, they built a family filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. He leaves behind his children, Scott (Kelly) Johnson, Paul (Michaela) Johnson, and Chris (Annabel) Johnson, who were his pride and joy. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren, DJ (Tiffany), Baylee (Brandon), Blaine and Patrick Johnson, Elliott and Charlie Johnson, and his precious great-grandchildren, Landry Bowlin, Ainsley Johnson, Titus Johnson, Deacon, and Chapel Johnson. Dr. Johnson was predeceased by his loving parents, Doralee and Douglas Johnson. His sister, Jan (Roger) Spann, along with nephews Eric Spann and Adam (Laura) Spann, great-nephews Eli, Ethan, and others, and cousins Donny (Tammy) Blair, and Judy Lestrade, all survive him and carry forward his memory. A man of great intellect and curiosity, Dr. Johnson graduated from Stephen F. Austin University and earned his medical degree from the University of Texas campuses at Galveston and San Antonio. He served his country with distinction in the United States Air Force, where he interned at Wilford Hall Hospital in San Antonio administering health care to soldiers returning from Vietnam and received a fellowship in Cardiology at Duke University. His commitment to healing and service continued with his private medical practice in Little Rock, Arkansas, where he focused on veterans' care and impacted countless lives. Dr. Johnson was a lifelong learner and a man of many passions. He was an active member of Second Presbyterian Church for over 40 years and a founding member of the Riverdale Soccer Club and the Second Presbyterian Men's Bible Study Group. His love for soccer, tennis, golf, and his dedication to the Special Olympics reflected his vibrant spirit and compassion for others. Affectionately known as "Bibi" by his grandchildren, Dr. Johnson was an ever-present figure in their lives, attending their games, teaching them to ride bikes, and sharing in their adventures- tree climbing, hiking, fishing and hunting and telling stories. He was often seen front row at the many dance and acting performances throughout the Little Rock arts' scene. He attended football, soccer and basketball games regularly. He was a man of integrity, known for his well-dressed demeanor, soft-spoken nature, and quick wit. His greatest professional achievement was the unwavering care he provided to his patients and their families. A service celebrating Dr. Johnson’s life will be held on August 21, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Second Presbyterian Church, located at 600 Pleasant Valley Drive, Little Rock, AR 72227. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to LifeTouch Health in memory of Dr. Johnson. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, medical teams, and hospice staff who made Dr. Johnson's final days comfortable and dignified. Your love, compassion, and care have been a source of immense comfort, and your kindness will never be forgotten. Dr. Ben D. Johnson's legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to others will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His life was a testament to the beauty of service, love, and unwavering kindness. May he rest in peace.