Deacon Oscar Emmitt Johnson, 96, formerly of Lowndes County, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Aug. 7, 2016, at his home in Peoria, Illinois, surrounded by his family.

Johnson is survived by his son, Billy (Theresa) Johnson, of Gadsden; and daughter, Dr. Beverly Johnson Thomas, of Peoria, Illinois; one sister, Edna Pickney, of Tyler; nine grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at noon on Friday, Aug. 12 at Mt. Gillard Baptist Church with a visitation beginning at 11 a.m.

Pastor Dwight Johnson will officiate. Johnson will be laid to rest at Mt. Gillard Cemetery.