Paul Johnson

Paul A. 'Duffy' Johnson

UBC-Recognized Metal Lather

Paul A. "Duffy" Johnson, 93, left his earthly home in Ligonier Township Wednesday, March 6, 2024, with his loving family by his side. He was one of eight children born to the late Ina Fern and Adolf E. Johnson in Darlington.

Duffy attended Ligonier High School but went to work as a metal lather full time with his father while he was a teenager. He was recently recognized by the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America for being a member for 75 years. Retiring in 1962 he worked out of both the Johnstown and Pittsburgh locals.

He became known quite well in his young life as a race car driver, racing on a number of tracks in the area for several decades. As a member of the Darlington Volunteer Fire Co., he helped build the current fire hall. He was also a life member of Latrobe Elks Lodge 907.

Duffy is survived by his wife of 50 years, Jerona “Jo” Johnson, and the following children: Jeanie Anderson and her husband, Carl Bobby, of Farrell, Mercer County, Paul A. (Paula) Johnson of Jeannette, Timothy (Linda) Johnson of St. Marys, Dale (Janet) Johnson of Rector, Tanya (Wesley) Quisenberry of Woolwine, Virginia, and Brett (Sarah) Johnson of Ligonier. There are 16 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his sisters: Ina Mae (Robert) Smithley of Ligonier, Marlene (David) Aikens of Holland, Michigan, and Rita Horrell of Darlington, along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, March 23, in Bethel Evangelical Lutheran Church, 647 Bethel Church Road, Latrobe (Cook Township), with his pastor, the Rev. David Hanssen, officiating.