Manfred “Fred” Johnson passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

Fred was born on January 26, 1951, in Idar-Oberstein, Germany, to his mother, Elsbeth Fuchs Johnson, and was later raised alongside his adopted father, James Johnson. He spent part of his childhood in Germany before moving to Tampa, Florida, where he grew up with his sisters, Diana and Sharon. Fred graduated from Robinson High School in Tampa and later attended the University of Florida.

Fred devoted much of his professional life to public safety, serving as a certified bridge inspector with the Florida Department of Transportation for 30 years. After his time with the state, Fred continued sharing his expertise for another five years with Kissinger Campo & Associates and Ayres Associates.

Outside of work, Fred embraced life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid football fan and proudly cheered on the Florida Gators every chance he got. He loved spending time on the golf course and enjoyed participating in the Macon County Senior Games. Bowling was another passion of Fred’s, and through league bowling he not only competed but also took joy in coaching and encouraging others along the way.

In 1997, Fred met the love of his life, Carol Lynn Johnson, through the matchmaking efforts of a mutual friend. The two were married on October 3, 1998, and shared many happy years together, along with their beloved companion, Chewie the wonder dog. Fred was known as a devoted husband, a caring brother and uncle, and a loyal friend. Gentle in spirit and steady in nature, he was a man who rarely complained and who brought quiet kindness to those around him.

Fred is survived by his wife Carol Lynn Johnson; sisters, Diana Mir and her husband, Majid of Atlanta and Sharon Klein of Portland, Maine; his father, James Johnson and his wife, Tarry, of Dothan, Alabama; his brother-in-law, Christopher Schmidt and his wife, Mary, of Manitowoc, Wisconsin; his sister-in-law, Mary Voigt of Peoria, Illinois; and his sister-in-law, Susan Stack and her husband, Robert Pierce, of Leesburg, Florida. He also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews who brought him great pride and joy.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Elsbeth Fuchs Johnson.

Fred will be remembered for his quiet strength, his generous heart, and the steady presence he offered to those fortunate enough to know him.

Memorial donations may be made to Four Seasons Hospice

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