Robert L. Johnson

Robert Lee (Tree) Johnson, Sr., was born on November 23, 1934, to Andrew Johnson and Santonia Bryson Johnson in Lauderdale County, Alabama. He was the oldest of four brothers and four sisters. He passed peacefully at home Thursday night, June 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. 

Tree confessed his faith early in life at St. James Missionary Baptist Church where he served on the usher board and finance committee. 

Tree attended Burrell Slater High School in Florence, Alabama where he played on the football team. He started practicing with hair cutting as a young teenager under the watchful eye of his father. His first “customers” were his younger brothers. He found that he had a God-gifted talent in using his hands to create art. He loved being his own boss and the freedom it allowed him. He became a living legend on West Mobile Street as local and out of towners came from near and far to sit in his chair. The people loved him, and he loved the people. He would come home and tell us many exciting and funny stories about the daily happenings at the westside barbershop.  He delivered wonderful customer service to the community where he was a builder, leader and role model.  He made countless trips to homes, hospital rooms, nursing homes and funeral homes, wherever his assistance was needed. Tree worked on West Mobile Street for approximately 70 years without any incidents whatsoever. His nickname “Tree” was given to him because he cut his first paying customers hair under an old pine tree. Once he retired, he continued using his gifts in growing his vegetable garden, plants and manicuring his lawn. His tomatoes and cucumbers grew abundantly and deliciously. He was also presented with several lawn beautification awards presented by the city of Florence. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Andrew and Santonia Bryson Johnson and three brothers: Levi Johnson, Tommie Lee Johnson and Lee Otis Johnson. 

Tree leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife of 65 years Earline Johnson, his devoted children; Edwin Johnson, Diane Johnson Lee, Patricia Byrd, Lesa Burns and Robert Lee Johnson, Jr., all of Florence, AL. Sisters; Augusta Wilson, Los Angeles, CA., Betty Johnson-Porter, Flora Johnson and Sharon (Harry) Boddie all of Florence, AL. Two brothers; Elbert Johnson, Virginia Beach, VA. and Bennie (Anna) Johnson of Florence, AL.  He also leaves behind 8 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

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