William (Bill) Johnson, 92, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2022. He was born in Richmond on March 22, 1929, to Albert and Becky Johnson. From his humble beginnings, Bill became a world traveler, successful stock car driver on local circuits, and could spin a tale like few others. He was a retiree from the Wayne Corporation. Bill’s true passion was auto racing, especially NASCAR. But his love of racing also translated to the track in his own stock cars. In his younger years, he was a popular and prolific driver on tracks in Indiana and Ohio, amassing dozens of trophies. In fact, he won the final race ever ran on the Richmond track before it closed. He was also one of a handful of local drivers to be honored at the Wayne County Historical Museum during their retrospect of local racing just a couple of years ago.
He is survived by two grandsons; Robert Glickman and Joseph Glickman of Richmond, IN; and four step-children; Carol Sappenfield of Fort Wayne, IN: Bruce (Traci) Williams of Richmond, IN: Mark (Joy) Williams of Richmond, IN: and Bret (Nancy) Williams of Carmel, IN.
He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings; daughter Beverly Glickman; and his amazing and wonderful wife of 50 years, Julia Mae Johnson, with whom he traveled the globe.
Visitation will be Thursday, February 17, 2022, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Stegall-Berheide-Orr Funeral Home, 222 North 10th Street, Richmond, IN. His entombment will be in Earlham Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared with the family via the guest book at stegallberheideorr.com.