Perry Robert Johnson

The gentle soul of Perry Robert Johnson, at the age of 63, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2019.   After a long and courageous battle with schizophrenia, he will be in heaven for Christmas.
He was born in Akron on November 16, 1956 to Max and Jeanne (nee Whitman) Johnson.
Perry was preceded in death by his  parents;  he is survived by his siblings, Michael (Carol) Johnson, Janet (Don) Lewis, and Patrick (Laura) Johnson;  nephews, and nieces, Michael (Christie), Ryan, Katie, Elaine (Shane), Bryn, and Paul; great nieces and great nephew, Elizabeth, Elise, and Hayden; and his close friend Gerard Dusa.   
Perry graduated from the University of Miami in Ohio and earned a degree in Art Therapy.  After living in Vermont for several years, Perry returned to the Akron area.
In spite of his illness, Perry was determined to live as full a life as possible.  His courage and stoicism were an inspiration to all.  Perry celebrated seasons and holidays with art and poetry, which he regularly shared with family and friends.   Over time, the receipt of these gifts became a family tradition, and will be fondly remembered and missed. 
He filled his days with a passion for art, music, nature, writing, service to others, a weekly drumming circle, participation in prayer groups, and regular mass attendance at St. Bernard's and St. Vincent's churches.  Perry was a living, breathing, example of the power of prayer and spirituality while maintaining a positive and supportive outlook with family and friends.  
There are no calling hours.  The family will have a private Celebration of Life at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to St. Joseph's Indian School, P. O. Box 326, Chamberlain, South Dakota  57326, www.stjo.org/dreams or The Summit County Metro Parks Foundation, www.foundations@summitmetroparks.org. Those wishing to send online condolences may visit: www.billowfuneralhomes.com, Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, 85 N. Miller Road, Akron, OH 44333.  (Billow Fairlawn Chapel, 330-867-4141)

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