Home / Dallas News / Bobby Johnson, who helped print The Dallas Morning News for 45 years, dies at 65

Bobby Johnson, who helped print The Dallas Morning News for 45 years, dies at 65

For more than 45 years, Bobby Johnson worked to get copies of  into the hands of North Texans.

After joining The News in August 1975, he ascended the ranks of its print operation, serving as plate boy, reel tender, press operator and, in recent years, press foreman.

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Johnson, better known as BJ, died Jan. 12 at age 65.

In his career with The News that began in August 1975, Johnson, better known at BJ, served several roles, including plate boy, reel tender, press operator, and finally foreman for the past several years.
In his career with The News that began in August 1975, Johnson, better known at BJ, served several roles, including plate boy, reel tender, press operator, and finally foreman for the past several years.(LAWRENCE JENKINS / 191333)

“Bobby had an exceptional career,” said Jimmy Morton, senior production director. “He influenced so many of us in a very meaningful way. None of us at the North Plant remembers a time in our career without him. He will live in our memories forever.”

Johnson grew up in Pickton, southeast of Sulphur Springs, and attended Como-Pickton High School.

One of his stepdaughters, Sharon East of Dallas, described him as a “humble spirit, [a] kind, caring and loving man.”

“Our hearts are saddened,” she said. “He will be deeply missed by all.”

In addition to his stepdaughter, Johnson is survived by his wife of 45 years, Charlotte Johnson of DeSoto; a stepson, Bruce Beaty of Dallas; another stepdaughter, Charlene Beaty of Dallas; three brothers, Clifford Johnson of Duncanville, Roy Johnson of Dallas and Larry Johnson of Overton; four sisters, Annette Washington of Mesquite, Carolyn Johnson and Donna Linwood of Dallas, and Paula Lerma from Mankato, Minn.

Arrangements for a memorial service and funeral are pending.

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