Earnest Lee Johnson, 79, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, transitioned on July 15, 2025. He was born on July 28, 1945, in Fairfield, Alabama, to Alfred Johnson Jr. and Alberta Early.

Earnest was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Earnest "Chopper" McKinsey Shepard; his brother, Alonzo Johnson; and his sister, Alma Mae Dooley.

Earnest attended Langston High School in Hot Springs and went on to build a lifelong career as a custom metal fabricator. He enjoyed "playing the horses," fishing, gardening, and hunting. His favorite color was red, and he had a deep love for roses.

In 1972, Earnest met the love of his life, Louise. They married in 1979 in Malvern, Arkansas. Earnest loved to drive, and together they would take long road trips, often traveling from Arkansas to Louisiana and Texas, simply enjoying the journey and each other's company.

Earnest is survived by his wife of 53 years, Louise Johnson, his son, Danny Johnson, his Daughters, Paula Johnson and Loretta Todd, his brothers, J.B. Dennis (Michael) Johnson, his sisters, Evelyn (George) Ziegler, and Betty Barnett, a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Carrigan Memorial Funeral Service, 336 E. Grand Ave., Hot Springs, AR 71901. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery.

You may sign the guest registry at http://www.carriganmemorial.com
Arrangements entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.