Grant Reed Johnson

Grant Reed Johnson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Born in 1932, Grant married Jean Tingey in 1953. They were married for 71 wonderful years, a milestone they celebrated in September. Together, they built a loving family with two sons, six grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Jean, and sons Paul (Julie) and David (Susie). Grant’s academic achievements were remarkable. He earned degrees from the University of Utah, the Naval Postgraduate School, the California Institute of Technology, and the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB). His professional life was equally distinguished, serving as a naval aviator, test pilot, and university lecturer. He was also an expert woodworker, a craft he pursued passionately and skillfully. He was particularly talented at wood-turning and crafted many beautiful bowls and platters. He was always curious about learning new things and skills. He loved flying for the US Navy and served four tours of duty in the Pacific and Southeast Asia. After retiring from the Navy, he obtained his PhD in Mechanical Engineering at UCSB and then taught there for several years. He was a distinguished instructor and popular with the mechanical engineering students who took his senior design class. Grant and Jean resided in St. George, Utah, but their journey together took them to many places, including Escondido and Camarillo in California, as well as Maryland, Virginia, Florida, Texas, and other locations in California. Grant’s legacy of love, dedication, and excellence will be cherished by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed. Multiple organizations helped care for Grant in his last three months of life. We are grateful to Zion’s Way Hospice, Home Helpers, Legacy Village of St. George, and the Cremation Center of Southern Utah. These organizations provided love and care to Grant and his family in his final days, and we thank you. Family and friends are invited to share tributes online at www.SerenityStG.com. Arrangements and memorial tree planting under the direction of Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah, (435) 986-9100.

Grant Reed Johnson

February 9, 1932 - October 13, 2024