Allen "Sonny" Johnson

Allen “Sonny” Johnson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and horseman, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on September 8, 1940, in Checotah, Oklahoma, Sonny was the cherished son of Edmon and Vera (Cude) Johnson. He spent his formative years in the Victor and Wainwright communities, graduating with pride from Wainwright High School. Sonny’s remarkable work ethic was evident early on, beginning with his first job at a grocery store in Checotah. His journey led him to Muskogee, where he found his calling in the automotive industry, working for several Volkswagen dealerships. When VW left Muskogee, Sonny continued his career at Conley Motor Company, ever dedicated to honing his expertise. He furthered his knowledge at VW and Subaru training schools, a commitment that culminated in opening his own business, Sonny’s VW and Subaru Repair. Known for his skill and integrity, Sonny built lasting relationships with his customers and community. After closing his beloved shop, a close friend, Ed Silver, invited him to join the McDonald’s family as a maintenance man—a testament to the trust and respect he inspired. On February 27, 1982, Sonny married his devoted partner, Louise Yochum, at the First United Methodist Church in Eufaula, Oklahoma. Together, they settled on a farm outside Muskogee, where they poured their hearts into raising and breeding quarter horses. Sonny’s passion for horses was legendary—he could recall the full registered name of every horse he ever owned, and through his dedication, his horses found homes as far away as New York, Mexico, and Pennsylvania. A true cowboy at heart, Sonny’s adventures began in youth, riding his faithful horse Tony everywhere he went. His love of classic vehicles led him to restore a ‘59 Chevy pickup and an ‘81 Chevy pickup, cherished projects he enjoyed sharing with his granddaughter, Danielle, as they went hot rodding together. Sonny’s enthusiasm for dirt track racing was infectious. He shared countless trips to Tulsa Speedway with George Beam and Dale Dennis and kindled this passion in his daughter, Donett, attending Thunderbird Speedway and the Tulsa Chili Bowl until it became too difficult for him to attend. In retirement, Sonny devoted himself completely to his family and his beloved horses. His warmth, wisdom, and storytelling spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edmon and Vera Johnson; two infant brothers; one infant sister; other siblings, Mary Lou Farmer; Ell Wee Every; his twin, Alice Liston; Delcen Burns; and his brother, Body Lee Johnson. He is survived by his loving wife, Louise, of the home; his children, Donett Hillman and husband Tony of Wagoner, Greg Johnson and wife Holly, and Darran Johnson, all of Muskogee; his grandchildren, Danielle and husband Geoffrey, Derrick Roland, Skyler and husband Billy, Scott Johnson, Sadie and husband Adam, Sasha Johnson, Megan Johnson, and Hunter Johnson; his great-grandchildren, Ace Roland, Kaysen Cutter, Rhett Hutchenson, Asher Hutchenson, and Summit Johnson; his siblings, Thomas and wife Margaret, Carl and wife Judy, Jim and wife Jane, Imaree Neumeyer; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends. Sonny’s enduring legacy of family, friendship, and a life well-lived will remain in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know him. A celebration of Sonny’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday, September 22, 2025, at Cornerstone Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Donnie Echols officiating.

Allen "Sonny" Johnson

September 8, 1940 - September 11, 2025