Age 79, Luray, Va.
George Richard “Rick” Johnson, 79, passed away on Monday morning, December 1st, 2025, at his home in Luray. He lived an enriching life that sprouted from humble beginnings where his love to educate and entertain created collegiality and lasting friendships in his community. Rick was proud of his legacy of inspiring his students, athletes, family, and friends.
He is survived by his wife of over 48 years, the former Starr Robinson of Luray, and sons John of Luray and Scott of Harrisonburg. Additional survivors are his brothers Thomas “Tom” of Max Meadows, Frank of Waynesboro, and brother-in-law Stuart Robinson of Luray. He was preceded in death by his youngest brother, Robert, of Edinburg, who died in 2024.
Rick was born on May 4th, 1946, in the town of Woodstock, the oldest son of the late L.G. “Doc” and Judith Eutsler Johnson. Rick was a member of Woodstock United Methodist Church, a graduate of Central High School, and a graduate of Randolph-Macon College where he sang tenor in the Randolph-Macon Men’s Choir.
Right after he graduated from Randolph-Macon, he was hired as an English teacher at Luray High School where he also served as the defensive coordinator for the Varsity football team. He would then be assigned the job of first track coach at Luray High School in 1969, despite Luray having no physical track. He coached three state track champions, despite the fact Luray would always be the visiting team, through their combined perseverance.
Upon completion of his master’s degree in education from James Madison University in 1992, he continued as an educator serving as Assistant Principal, then stepping up to Principal of W.W. Robinson Elementary School in Woodstock. He retired in 1999 as the Campus Dean of the three schools in the Southern District of the Shenandoah County Public Schools.
In his spare time, he was a regular on the tennis courts, especially the hard surfaces that showcased his blazing serve and volley game. Prior to the birth of his sons, he entertained by singing as he played both guitar and banjo at the Skyland Lodge “Tap Room” in Shenandoah National Park, as well as The Johnny Appleseed Restaurant in New Market.
Rick’s retirement from public education opened new doors and opportunities for his family. As an instructor in both Page and Shenandoah counties, he was troubled by the “watermelons or beans” attitude that ignored the need for financial education and economic well-being. With his management and computer skills, he partnered with his wife to launch Starr Johnson Investments and Insurance, Incorporated to initiate the skills absent from the public school system and plant seeds of hope for the future.
As a father, Rick took pride in his family and he always let his sons know they were valued, important, and loved. He would share with them a love for the written word and to strive to be themselves and be the best they can be. After suffering a stroke in 2004, he would spend more time at home, preferring to stay in the town that he loved. He’d continue playing his beloved banjos and guitars and dedicated more time and vigilance to his annual vegetable gardens, where he found peace, tranquility, and simple joy until the end of his days. Starr, John, and Scott will always carry his phenomenal spirit and grace in their hearts.
The family will receive friends at the Bradley Funeral Home in Luray, Saturday, December 6, at 1 p.m. His memorial service will proceed there an hour later at 2 p.m. The Johnson family invites mourners to the reception to honor Rick’s life at The Manor House, 401 West Main St., Luray, VA, at 3 p.m. to enjoy food, fellowship, and memories after the service.
In memory of Rick, a donation may be made to the Laurel Ridge Community College to establish the George Richard Johnson Scholarship Fund. Please make checks payable to the Laurel Ridge Foundation, 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, VA, 22645.
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