We mourn the passing of C.P. Johnson, whose lifelong dedication to agriculture has left an indelible mark on the community. He was a visionary and a leader in agriculture, having dedicated over six decades to working the land and nurturing crops in the Neelvyille (Coon Island) vicinity. He mentored many, generously sharing his knowledge and experience with younger generations of farmers, ensuring that his legacy would continue to thrive for years to come.
He leaves a rich legacy of dedication, integrity, and innovation that will continue to inspire and guide the agricultural community for generations. C.P.’s impact extended beyond his land borders, as he actively contributed to agrarian research, collaborated with fellow farmers, and advocated for sustainable agricultural policies.
In the late 1970s, he traveled to Washington, D.C., as a committed member of the American Agriculture Movement. In response to the challenges of low crop prices, high farm debt, and widespread foreclosures, they demonstrated unwavering determination at the White House doorstep. There are reports that he may or may not have been involved in releasing a goat on the White House lawn.
At the age of 81, he departed Sept. 6, 2024. C.P. was welcomed into the world May 31, 1943, to Harold and Ozell Johnson and sister Pat in Dunklin County, Missouri. After graduating as valedictorian from Clarkton High School in 1961, C.P. humorously recalled his brief two-week academic stint at Southeast Missouri State University.
Before his lifelong career as a farmer, C.P. spent time in Florida, stacking watermelons with his lifelong friend Romie.
In 1962, C.P. married Barbara, the love of his life, and together they raised four daughters. C.P. was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara, and his parents, Harold and Ozell Johnson.
He is survived by daughters, Regina Williams, Renee Eaker (Rusty), Ruchelle Eudaley (Greg), and Niki French (John). He was Pa to his cherished grandchildren, Parker, Austin, Tori, Abby, Ashley, Trenton, Taytem, Teslyn, Darby, and Drayden, and Pa Johnson to his great-grandchildren:, Charlotte, Samuel, Rowan, Virginia, Georgia, Theodore, Rev, Silo, Woodson, Aspen, Cohen, H.B., and Arlo.
He cherished spending Sundays with his sister, Pat Boone, and nieces, Ruseena, Rita, Tina, Robyn, and Tonya.
Services for C.P. will be held at Fowler and Sons Funeral Home in Neelyville, Missouri, on Wednesday, September 11. Visitation will begin at 11 a.m., with the funeral at 1 p.m. A private graveside service will follow. Instead of flowers, the family requests donations to the Neelyville Agricultural Education Classes and Neelyville FFA.