It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and an unwavering supporter of both the Batesville community and the funeral profession, Tom Johnson. He departed this world on December 21, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, community spirit, and dedicated service.
Tom was born on July 13, 1950, in Batesville, Indiana to Harry and Dorothy Johnson. Tom had three siblings: Tony Johnson, Margaret Kidwell, and Carol Firsich. Early on he excelled in Basketball and Baseball which earned him a baseball scholarship to Butler University. Just like his father who had been the Mayor of Batesville, Tom Johnson was a man whose heart was deeply intertwined with the fabric of the community. His commitment was exemplified through years of selfless service and support. Whether he was championing community causes, raising money, or offering a helping hand, Tom was a true beacon of light for Batesville.
Professionally, Tom Johnson was a respected member of the funeral profession. His journey included significant roles at Batesville Casket Company, International Funeral Service, and Pierce Brothers Mortuaries and Cemeteries, where he propelled the industry forward with visionary leadership and strategic innovations. Tom’s entrepreneurial spirit led to the founding of Prime Succession in Batesville, Indiana and later the establishment of Johnson Consulting Group. He served as a Board Member for both Hillenbrand Industries and Great Western Insurance Company. In addition, Tom was a great supporter of the Funeral Service Foundation, where he served on the Board of Trustees.
Beyond the walls of his profession, Tom Johnson was a loving family man. He leaves behind his wife Cynthia Johnson (Cynthia Logan), sons Jake (Robyn) and Brian (Joanna), and daughter Kate. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Logan, Carson, Eli, and Graham.
In his personal life Tom enjoyed everything about life, from fishing and hunting to golfing and most notably playing cards, board games, and gambling. He loved spending time on his farm and seeing his grandkids enjoying their sports, hobbies, and interests. You could find Tom in the afternoon or evening with a cigar in hand and the Cincinnati Reds game on TV.
A celebration of Tom Johnson’s life starts with visitation hours on Thursday December 28th at Weigel Funeral Home in Batesville, IN from 3-7pm. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Louis Catholic Church in Batesville, IN on Friday, December 29th at 10:00am followed by a graveside service at St. Louis Catholic Cemetery. Friends, family, and community members are invited to join in honoring a life well-lived, reflecting on the impact he had, not only on his family but in the broader Batesville community and funeral profession.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Margaret Mary Health Foundation or The Batesville Area Arts Council in Tom Johnson’s memory, continuing his legacy of giving back to the community he held dear.
May Tom Johnson’s spirit of compassion and service continue to inspire us all. Though he may no longer be with us in person, the echoes of his kindness and dedication will resonate through the community he loved so faithfully.