Ray K. Johnson, 81, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on October 29, 2019 in Niagara Falls, NY.  Born on May 16, 1938 in Roanoke, VA, he was the son of the late Robert Lee and Celia (Reed) Johnson.

Ray was raised in Roanoke, VA, and graduated from Jefferson High School.  At the age of 18, Ray bravely moved to New York City where he applied and was accepted to Columbia University. Ray was self-employed as an artist.  He had exceptional talents with an incredible singing voice and was a remarkable painter and sculptor. In the 1960s through the 1970s Ray meticulously restored and then sold homes he acquired in New York City. He worked on Judy Holiday's apartment and the home for Carol Burnett's and Barbara Streisand's musical conductor.    Ray worked with John Lennon's ex-wife, Yoko Ono, restoring her oceanfront Palm Beach, Florida mansion as a tribute to John Lennon.   In 1984, The Palm Beach Daily News noted "Ray Johnson is the Michelangelo for Yoko Ono Lennon".   Ray was close to his mother and took her to places she had always dreamed of going in Europe, including Ireland and Italy.   He was very witty, loved to laugh, and was committed to a healthy, plant-based diet. Ray was a gentle and kind man.

Ray is survived by his sisters, Shirley Davis, of Miami, FL, and Phyllis Bollettieri of Surfside, FL and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his siblings, Doris Johnson, Robert Johnson, Jr., Mildred Bryant, and Johnny Johnson.

The family wishes to offer their thanks and gratitude to the staff of Niagara Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for their professionalism and compassion in caring for Ray.

Private funeral services will be held by the family. If desired, memorial offerings in Ray's honor may be made to The Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.  Arrangements by M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304.