Richard "Rick" Johnson, Jr., age 81, of the Town of Lee, passed away on February 12, 2026, at Rome Health, with his family at his bedside.

Rick was born in Chester, NJ on July 16, 1944, to the late Richard and Tomasina Mercadante Johnson and educated in the Chester Schools. Upon graduating high school, he enlisted into the U.S. Air Force and retired at Griffiss AFB after 21 years of honorable service. During his military career, he received the Meritorious Service Medal, two Air Force Commendation Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. On May 23, 1980, he was united in marriage to the former Carol Schwarting in Rome and together raised four children and created many memories that spanned over 39 years until her passing on June 1, 2019.

Rick served his community for 10 years as a Class 3 Firefighter/EMT for the Lee Center Vol. Fire Department. He was also certified as a DEC Search and Rescue member and NYS Hunter Education Instructor. He was a member of the NRA and the Retired Enlisted Association. While stationed in Missouri, he became certified as a state umpire and official for baseball, softball, and football. He enjoyed everything the outdoors had to offer including hunting and fishing, but he also found peace and joy in nature itself.

Rick is survived by his children, Richard (Allison) Johnson III, Kristen M. (Warren Knapp) Johnson, Jeffrey S. (Deb) LeFevre, and Eric P. LeFevre; his grandchildren, Kailey, Luke, Richie, Julieann, and Addie; his sister, JoAnn (Dale) Sargent; and several nephews and his favorite niece, Renee. He was predeceased by his sisters, Arlene Johnson and Pamela Kise.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 11 AM, at St. Peter's Church. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery in the spring.

Relatives and friends may pay their respects on Monday, February 16 at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome, from 4 to 6 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care, 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, NY 13413-9954.

Please offer online condolences at: www.barryfuneralhome.com.