Eric Derion "Pug" Johnson, 54, of Gainesville, entered eternal rest on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at HCA Florida Lake City Hospital. The son of Margaret Ann Hopkins Harris and Anthony Owen Johnson, he was born on Wednesday, January 8, 1969 in Palatka. Eric formerly resided in Kingston, NY where he attended public schools. He was of the muslim religion. Eric enjoyed playing checkers and chess. He especially loved working as a Professional Barber.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in eternal rest by his maternal grandparents, Jim H. Hopkins, Sr. and Lizzie M. Hopkins; paternal grandparents, Willie and Alma Johnson; uncles, Jeff Anderson, Willie B. Johnson, Arthur Johnson, Albert Johnson, Jim H. Hopkins, Jr.; aunts, Mable H. McCoy, Naomi S. Hughes.

To cherish his memories: wife, Elizabeth Ausanio Johnson; mother, Margaret Hopkins Harris; bonus mom, Cheryl Johnson; children, Amber F.  Johnson, Allante' R. Johnson, Eric D. B. Johnson, Jade Ausanio; bonus-children, Freddie DeGroat, Ashley Brodhead, Elisa Moses, Alexcis Moses; granddaughter, Nivea Allen; brother, Pastor Christopher (Dr. Carmen) Harris; sister, LaShay Johnson; aunts and uncles, Mae Frances Word, Min. Cathy Gilyard, Bonita Durden, Arlene Johnson, Betty Crumbwell, Edward Johnson, Leonard Johnson; other relatives and friends.

Celebration of Eric's life will be held 2 p.m., Wednesday, June 7, at Flagg's Chapel of Serenity. Interment: Oak Hill West Cemetery.