Eric Lavalle Johnson

Eric Lavalle Mason's earthly journey began on January 4, 1948. He was the son of Jean Mason and John Gaither. Jean later married Edward Johnson who adopted Eric Lavalle Johnson. Eric was affectionately called "Rickey" or "Rick" by family and friends.

Eric thrived in Lincoln Park where anybody's backyard could became a playground. Eric spent time with his father at the upholstery business in Frederick, MD. A lot of his youthful days were spent in Emory Grove working with his step-father at Johnson's Park helping with baseball games, the annual camp meeting and other events.

Eric attended Rock Terrace Elementary, Broome Junior High and Richard Montgomery High School, graduating in 1966. At Richard Montgomery he excelled as a halfback, #21, on Coach Roy Lester's championship football teams. Eric's name is listed on the Richard Montgomery All Time Greatest Players Fourth Team. He was inducted into the Lincoln Park Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006. Eric's love for football continued as he became a loyal fan of the Baltimore Ravens.

Eric served his country as an Airman in the United States Air Force, 20th Air Division, Special Forces. He served in Vietnam where he was wounded. He was awarded with the following medals for his service:

Silver Star Medal - the United States Armed Forces third-highest military decoration for valor in combat. The Silver Star medal is awarded primarily to members of the United States Armed Forces for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States

Defense Meritorius Services Military Merit

The Vietnam Service Medal

Good Conduct

He was honorably discharged in 1973 at the rank of Sergeant.

Eric married Patricia Gray. Eric and Patricia are the parents of Kelly. He later married Jato Bush. Eric and Jato were the parents of Eric Jr., Kyle, and Renee.

Eric worked for the Mayflower moving company as a driver, often driving coast to coast. He later had his own moving company.

Eric was not a member of any church. He was an avid Bible reader and most importantly he loved the Lord. His favorite Bible verses were John 14: 1-7 and 18 Thessalonians 4: 13-18.

Eric returned to Rockville to serve as his Mother's caregiver when she could no longer live alone.

We can only imagine that on December 9, 2025, that the greatest coach of all time called Johnson #21 to the sideline and said to him, "You played a good game, you served your country-you did your best." Eric's earthly Journey was over.

Eric is survived by his wife Jato, sons, Eric Jr. and Kyle, daughters Kelly and Renee, grandchildren Avery, Collin, Alexander and La'Kera, sisters Vanessa and Nicole, cousins, devoted friends and teammates.

With love and gratitude, The Family

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