TJJD employees at Gainesville State School are mourning the loss of a longtime colleague, David Johnson, a well-respected campus staff member who was known for being a supportive team player.

He is fondly remembered as a highly engaged staffer who understood the agency mission and had a knack for building rapport with the youth.

“David adapted from the ‘old school’ TJJD to embrace the new initiatives that focused on building relationships with our youth,” said Gainesville Volunteer Services Coordinator Kevin Hill. “He was always willing to offer guidance to help our youth learn and apply the skills they need to become productive adults.” 

Johnson would offer fatherly advice when the kids needed that, but also held them accountable for their actions, Hill said.

He was known on campus as an ardent Dallas Cowboys fan, who sported the team garb and colors, and as a sneaker aficionado.

The youth looked forward to seeing what fun tennis shoes he’d turn up wearing, Hill said, adding that “oftentimes, this was an ice breaker that allowed him to work at any dorm” or in almost any position and immediately build positive interactions with the youth.

Johnson had a serious side as well and was known as a compassionate and spiritual person who took the time to ask how others were doing and was always willing to offer spiritual care to co-workers.

His funeral will be at 11 am, Saturday, Nov. 19, at Impact Church in Longview. Viewing will be from 1-6 pm on Friday, Nov. 18, at Craig Funeral Home, 2001 S. Green St., Longview. The funeral home has not released a full obituary with survivors.