Clifford Lawrence Johnson

Clifford Lawrence Johnson (CJ) 89, of Lakeland, Florida, peacefully entered into eternal rest on June 24, 2026.
Born June 15, 1937, he was the son of William H. Johnson and Polly Mae (Grimes) Johnson. Clifford lived a life rooted in hard work, humility, and devotion to family and the outdoors.

He retired from Publix Supermarkets as a Truck Driver after 40 years of service. Clifford took great pride in his career and the lifelong friendships he built, truly embodying the Publix tradition of integrity and dedication. Clifford was an avid outdoorsman and proud member of the Florida Dog Hunters Association. He loved hunting in the Ocala National Forest, fishing for Bluegill, and spending time at Lake Marion with family. He was the happiest raising his cattle and horses, farming, and working the land he loved.

He married the love of his life, Mary Lois (Boatwright) Johnson, in 1957, and they shared 66 years together until her passing in 2023. Together they raised three children, Timothy Wayne Johnson, Sheila Johnson Sarvis, and Ashley Johnson Rice. He was a devoted husband, father, and Papa whose greatest joy was his family. He found comfort and happiness in time spent with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Clifford was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; his son, Timothy (2021); his daughter, Sheila (2026); his parents, William and Polly Johnson; and his siblings, Dorothy Mae Johnson, Elsie (Johnson) Combee, Donald Gordon Johnson, Howard Lee Johnson, Alberta (Johnson) Townsend, and William Harold Johnson.

He is survived by his daughter, Ashley Johnson Rice. Grandchildren Shanna Sarvis, Cory Sarvis (Jackie Sarvis), Madison Rice and Maverick Rice. Great grandchildren Waylon and Jolene Sarvis; along with extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Lanier Funeral Home, with services to follow.
Online condolences can be made at www.lanier.care.
Funeral arrangements were trusted to Lanier Funeral and Cremation Services, 717 Griffin Road Lakeland, FL 33805, (863) 687-3996

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.