Richard Ricardo Johnson was born on August 18, 1962, in Irishtown, St. Andrew Parish, Jamaica, West Indies, to Herbert “Chummie” Johnson and Claire Fraser. Richard was also affectionately known as “Rich,” “Richie,” or “Spice.”

He attended Craighton All-Age School during his formative years. He later attended Calabar High School, where he excelled in his studies and in track and field. Immediately after graduating from high school, he migrated to New York City. Two weeks later, prompted by his servant’s heart, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he served honorably. He was very thankful for the opportunities this country provided for him and his family. He often reflected on his time in the service and viewed it as one of his greatest accomplishments.

Richard met Sophia at her uncle’s restaurant in Brooklyn, and it was love at first sight. This was not a chance meeting—it was by Divine appointment. Richard and Sophia were married on June 11, 1994. Shortly thereafter, they settled in East New York, Brooklyn, and started a family consisting of four daughters: Brianna, Arianna, Gabrielle, and Isabelle.

Richard was a family man and a fierce protector. He always made his family feel safe and secure. Sophia often told him that he was so special that she had to share him with the world. If you really knew Richard, you would understand what that meant.

He was very proud of all his daughters and would do anything for them. At times, he would lovingly “complain” about having to go to the beauty supply store for his girls.

The word “no” was not in his vocabulary. If you called him and needed something done, he would be there at the drop of a hat, unless he was physically unable to—or had to take his hardworking wife to work or pick her up. He was incredibly dependable, even when he was in pain. Richard bore his pain with great dignity and courage.

One of his favorite sayings was, “Don’t worry, man. Everything will be okay,” and he ended every phone call with, “I love you.”

Of course, because he was so busy helping everybody, he would sometimes lose track of time. As a result, he was not always prompt in arriving at his destination—to put it mildly.

Richard was a loving and devoted son. He was his mother’s right hand. He was always talking about stopping by Mommy’s to do something. Whenever she needed him, and whatever she needed, he would be there. He also had no qualms about walking around a store carrying his mother’s handbag or any of her other belongings.

Richard was a good person who lived a rich and meaningful life. He was never loud or troublesome and readily forgave those who hurt him. He never spoke an unkind word about anyone, choosing instead to see the good in others. He meant the world to many, as evidenced by the grown men who wept openly upon hearing of his passing.

Most of us know that Richard had a passion for cooking, and when he cooked, there were always plenty of leftovers. He was very generous when it came to feeding others. Over the years, he, Sophia, and their girls frequently opened their home to others in hospitality.

Richard was truly one of a kind. Some of the many words that could be used to describe him include dedicated, faithful, caring, generous, humble, and meticulous. His main goal in life was to serve others and make them happy.

He also took great pride in doing work on his own home and on the homes of others when asked. His attention to detail was unmatched, and few could match his high standard of workmanship.

On Saturday, September 5, 2026, Richard departed this life. He is survived by his mother, Claire; his wife, Sophia; and his daughters, Brianna, Arianna, Gabrielle, and Isabelle. He also leaves behind his brothers, Paul, Horace, and Christopher; sister-in-law Princetta and niece Pria; mother-in-law Angela; brother-in-law Joseph; brothers-in-law Michael and Andrew, whom he considered his own sons; and sisters-in-law Denise and Deon, whom he considered his own daughters.

He also leaves to mourn his passing many nieces, nephews, cousins, close friends, and loved ones.

Richard’s legacy of love, family, generosity, and service will forever be cherished. He will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Rest easy, Richard.