Earl Wayne Johnson was born in Hyden, Kentucky on April 14, 1953, to the late Earl and Gladys Roberts Johnson. Known for his outgoing and unforgettable personality, he exemplified true character. He was a man of a great sense of humor and lighthearted teasing.

A United States Veteran, Earl Wayne served honorably in the United States Army, as a Private First Class, displaying a true love and admiration for his country. He served from 1972 until 1974, earning a National Defense Service Medal, Missleman 2nd class, and Expert M-16 qualification.

Earl Wayne was one of seven children, raised with a tight knit bond and love for each of his siblings. He later met the love of his life, Carolyn Begley, and they were married nearly 51 years. They were blessed with two sons, Kevin and Jeff, and three daughters, Brandi, Kayla, and Hannah. He was immensely proud of his family, especially his grandchildren. The early years of embracing the role of a dad was filled with memories of frequent weekend trips to the lake and looking forward to the next one.

A hard work ethic defined Earl Wayne throughout his life, and he instilled that same grit into his children as well. While balancing the life as a husband and father, he worked hard to provide a better life for his family, making sure they always had what they needed. Through the years, Earl Wayne's occupations ranged from working on an Oil Rig, KY-WV Gas Company, as well as many years with Pace’s Body Shop. While his occupation changed, his work ethic remained steadfast in the hard work and dedication to his job until becoming disabled.

Outside of Earl Wayne's work life, he had a wide range of hobbies and interests that brought him joy: Fishing was a given, but singing and dancing always brightened the mood. Raising chickens was another hobby he enjoyed. He was an avid sports fan and a proud supporter of the L.A. Dodgers, recently learning of their win of the World Series. He enjoyed collecting knives and guns, and trading as well.

While illness and struggle abound him, his will and perseverance remained strong until the end. Earl Wayne departed this life peacefully on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his family. Earl Wayne was 72 years old.

He leaves behind his wife, Carolyn Johnson of Hyden, KY; two beloved sons, Kevin Johnson & wife Lillie of Hyden, KY, and Jeff Johnson & wife Jackie of Hoskinston, KY; three beloved daughters, Brandi and Hannah Johnson of Hyden, KY, and Kayla Johnson of Versailles, KY; two sisters, Drucilla Campbell of Walton, KY, and Mary Lunceford of Beattyville, KY; and one brother, Michael Johnson and spouse Mychael of Williamsburg, VA; eight cherished grandchildren, Jason, Jared, Josh, Kati, Gavin, Jaelyn, Evan, and Lincoln Johnson. A host of other family and friends also cherish his memory.

In addition to his parents, Earl Wayne was preceded in death by a brother, Bobby Johnson, and three sisters, Dorothy Brewer, Florence McKnight, and Grace Harris.

The funeral service to commemorate the life of Earl Wayne Johnson will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, December 04, 2025, in the chapel of Wolfe & Sons Funeral Home with Geoffrey Roberts officiating and the reading of the obituary by Kayla Johnson.

Interment will follow the service at the Arnold & Hannah Begley Cemetery in Hyden, KY with full military honors performed by the Leslie County D.A.V., Chapter #133.

Friends and family may gather for visitation from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., Wednesday evening, December 03, 2025, at the chapel.

The following will serve as pallbearers:  Kevin Johnson • Jeff Johnson • Jason Johnson • Jared Johnson • Josh Johnson • Gavin Johnson • Evan Johnson and Michael Johnson

Arrangements are being handled carefully under the direction of Wolfe & Sons Funeral Home.