Ronald W. Johnson, 78, of Burlington, died Saturday, February 8, 2025 at his home.
Born on April 30, 1946 in Burlington, he was the son of Delbert H. Johnson and Mary Linn Kennedy. On December 18, 1976, in Birmingham, Ala., he married Wanda Dean Olvey. She survives.
Ron graduated from Sidney Lanier High School, class of 1964, and continued his education at the University of Alabama for his undergraduate studies and then on to University of Alabama School of Law, where he obtained his law degree in 1971. His keen interest in contract law led him into a successful career in the construction industry. As a general contractor and the founder of Maxus Construction Company in Birmingham, he was responsible for overseeing many sizable builds, including the first super Walmart, a Home Depot, and several residential complexes. He was very proud of developing Maxus into one of the fastest growing companies in the US, landing the business at #153 on the Inc. 500 in 1996.
Anyone who knew Ron was often regaled with tales of his youthful misadventures. He played pranks on everyone including his fraternity brothers in Theta Chi at the University of Alabama, his childhood friends in Montgomery, and members of his immediate family. His children and friends would often ask him to recall the details of his antics, listening in disbelief to a myriad of daring escapades by him and his good friends and family. Ron was known as being an excellent cook, and especially relished cooking (and eating) steaks with his family. He was generous to a fault and was often found to be simultaneously intimating and loveable due to his very direct nature. He enjoyed raising Brangus cattle in Alabama for many years, while his wife gardened and his father tended the pastures. His Christian faith, which was always a prominent part of his life, culminated in his and Dean’s ministry and missionary service in Macas, Ecuador, where their work continues to this day. Recent years led to the indulgence of his hobby with model trains, spending time with his family, and caring for his wife.
He is survived by his wife Dean; two daughters: Stephanie (Chip/George) Davis Casey of Birmingham, AL, Amanda (Doug Glader) Johnson Winters formerly of Birmingham, AL; six grandchildren: Jake, Amy and Jamie Casey, Owen, Gwen and Lucy Winters; siblings: Robert Johnson and Shirley Brown, both of Prattville, AL.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter Amy Lane Davis.
Per his wishes cremation has been entrusted and accorded to the care of Lunning Chapel. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Alabama.