Paul DeLancey Johnson

Paul DeLancey Johnson, 90 of Siler City, passed away Saturday, March 25, 2017 at Genesis Healthcare in Siler City after years of declining health. Mr. Johnson was a native of Chatham County born on April 12, 1926, the son of William Ernest Johnson and Emily Elizabeth "Lizzie" Ward Johnson. Paul was born and raised on the family farm which he received an award for which he was honored with National Bi-Centennial Farm Award in 1988. His love was raising beef cattle and farm life. He was a graduate of Silk Hope School in 1943. In 1958, he was awarded Outstanding Farmer of the Year. On Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 1964 Paul married the love of his life Betty Hackney. He loved "witching water" for wells. Paul was an avid fan of NC State Basketball and St. Louis Cardinals. He was one of the oldest members of Rocky River Baptist Church, former member and class treasurer of the Men's Bible Class and former choir member. Paul was also a past member of the Chatham County Cattlemen's Association which he enjoyed attending. He never met a stranger. He was known and loved as driver of bus #43 for Silk Hope School for many years. His greatest love was spending time with his family and loved being Papa to Gracie. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, sister; Sarah J. McPherson and brothers: Leon and Wade Johnson. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Betty H. Johnson of the home, daughter; Gloria J. Debnam and husband, Kenneth of Siler City, granddaughter; Grace Elizabeth-Lee Debnam. Several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends for visitation on Tuesday, March 28, 2017 from 7-9 pm at Smith and Buckner Funeral Home, 230 N. Second Avenue, Siler City, NC and other times at the family home. Funeral Services will be Wednesday, March 29, 2017 at 2pm at Rocky River Baptist Church officiated by Dr. Greg Burriss. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Special thanks to staff of Genesis Healthcare for the love and care that you gave "daddy" for the last eight years. Memorials may be made to the Rocky River Baptist Church Building Fund, 4436 Siler City-Snow Camp Rd., Siler City, NC 27344 Online condolences may be made at www.pughfuneralhome.com.