Passing of Greg Johnson

Photo: Galen Humber

Greg Johnson, who previously served on the Spiritual Assembly of Eskasoni and the Bahá’í Council of the Atlantic Provinces, passed away on 8 June. He was a founding member of the Union of Nova Scotia Indians and Mi’kmaq Family Services, a social services officer for the First Nations people of mainland Nova Scotia, and, as a self-taught electrician, set up radio stations on reserves throughout Eastern Canada. He also worked in many departments for the Eskasoni Band and studied the history and language of the Mi’kmaq people. Here is a letter that the National Spiritual Assembly wrote to his family and friends on 10 June:

The National Spiritual Assembly was deeply grieved to learn of the passing of a beloved brother and distinguished, faithful servant of the Cause, Greg Johnson. Many are those who have been inspired by his service to the community, uplifted by his commitment to social justice and progress, warmed by his joyful humour and delighted by his often mischievous nature. His keen interest in a wide range of subjects, his many skills and his warm heart were magnets to young and old alike.

Over many decades he has radiated the light of faith and has tended that same fire in the hearts of many others. His contributions to the teaching and administrative work of the Bahá’í community, as a member of the Spiritual Assembly of Eskasoni and the Bahá’í Council of the Atlantic Provinces, are remembered with deepest gratitude.

To his wife, Linda, his brothers, sisters, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and his many friends, we extend our loving sympathy at the loss of one so loved, who by his deeds has planted such a rich and fruitful garden. Be assured of the National Assembly’s prayers for your comfort and consolation, and for the progress of Greg’s soul on this next stage of his eternal journey. May you hold fast to this wondrous promise of reunion: “Following this separation is everlasting companionship. Thou shalt find me in the heaven of the Lord, immersed in an ocean of light.”[i]

[i] Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 199.