Stephen Johnson, 87, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday morning, October 13, 2024. He was born in Indianapolis, Indiana. He graduated from Marion High School and went on to earn his law degree at Earlham College.
He was a partner at Biddinger and Johnson Law Firm in Marion and from there was appointed City Attorney and served from 1980 – 1982. He became Grant County Prosecutor on January 1, 1983, and was the longest sitting Prosecutor in the history of Grant County, being elected for 5 consecutive terms ending December 31, 2002. He then continued as a Deputy Prosecutor and oversaw the Child Support Division. He was instrumental in bringing the Prosecutors’ Office from part-time to full-time and thus was the county’s first full-time prosecutor. He also was credited with bringing in record payments for the Child Support Division.
Stephen was a longtime member of First Friends Church of Marion. He was also a member of the Indian Bar Association.
He supported the community and was a member of many organizations such as Moose Lodge, Elks, Eagles, American Legion, Kiwanis, JC’s, Duffers Golf League, and Izaak Walten League.
Stephen was an avid sports fan. He was an IU basketball fan. He loved golf and played several different courses in several states. His favorite was playing in Florida during his winter stays. He had several verified holes-in-one around Grant County.
Stephen’s greatest joy was his family and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, who he dearly loved.
He will be remembered for his wisdom, always doing the right thing, his laughter, warmth, and love he shared with those around him.
Stephen is survived by his wife of 57 years, Janet, son Robert Johnson, daughter Cheri Johnson, Grandsons Stephen (Kari) Johnson, Cecil Johnson, and Nathan Johnson, Granddaughter, Jennifer Barker, Great Grandchildren Brayden (Janette) Johnson, Kaymen Johnson, Shaylan Johnson, Zoey Johnson, Aubrey Barker, and Ridley and Jaxon Timmons.
He was preceded in death by His parents Stephen and Marjorie Ruth (McCann) Johnson, his sister Mary Liz (Norman) Johnson, and his daughter Lori Johnson.
The family will receive visitors at Raven Choate Robinson Funeral Home, 1202 W Kem Rd., Marion, on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm and Thursday, October 17, 2024, from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm with funeral services beginning at 1:00 pm. Pastor Graveside service will be at Grant Memorial Park, 1606 W. 26th St., Marion Indiana.
Memorial contributions may be made to First Friends Church at 2211 N. Wabash Rd. Marion, IN. 46952.
Online condolences may be shared at www.ravenchoate.com.
