Robert Lewis Johnson

Robert Lewis Johnson was born in Brooklyn on December 27, 1947, to the late Robert Paul Johnson and the late Helen Resse Johnson. He attended private schools during his early school years but graduated from a public school and after matriculated at Mercy College. As an adult, Robert fathered three children: DeShonn Larkins, LaTeisha Larkins, and Robert (Robbie) Johnson, Jr.

One day while attending Memorial Presbyterian Church Robert saw a job notice for a custodian for the Uniondale School District. During his interview he was told that with his college credits he would be able to work in the classroom. In 2006, he was hired as a teaching assistant for students with special needs. He spent the first years working with middle school students and later worked with 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders. Robert encouraged the students and helped them believe in themselves.

While working in the school district, Robert worked a few days each week at an after-school Bible Club for youth. There he assisted with homework, Bible lessons, mentoring and singing. In Uniondale's Continuing Education program and with Uniondale Public Library workshops Robert taught a course, “Overcoming the fear of public speaking.”

Robert used his voice, whether it was for speaking or singing, to motivate and inspire many with a song or a word of positive encouragement.

After he was introduced to karaoke, Robert loved honoring requests to sing at parties, school functions, senior centers, etc. As a singer he performed songs from the 50's, 60’s, and 70’s. He was the Master of Ceremonies for the Harlem Book Fair, both in Harlem and on Long Island, for several years. On many occasions, Robert was the M.C. and performer for the African American Night Concerts, at Eisenhower Park.

In 2002, he had an encounter that would change his life in a way, Robert probably never foresaw. Robert was heard singing along to a song on the radio in a store in Far Rockaway, NY. Mattie Stays decided that she had a cousin for Robert to meet. Mattie introduced Robert to her cousin Cynthia McManus. After meeting a few times, he and Cynthia began dating in March 2003.

Cynthia and Robert were inseparable! They were very involved in their community and together were members of various community organizations. In their 22-year relationship, Cynthia and Robert enjoyed going to karaoke, bowling, Tuesday dates at the movies, House (Music) in the Park events, and modest vacations.

Robert sang very well. At one MPC event, Robert was the featured singer and many of the women from MPC threw flowers and other items his way; some swaying, others even swooning over his dreamy, dulcet tones. And never a shy or too humble man, Robert loved to serenade Cynthia while she blushed and aahhed throughout his crooning.

In addition to crooning, Robert swore he was a combination of a black Fred Astaire and a young Michael Jackson. If you didn’t have the opportunity to see Robert dance with his cane, you’ve missed a real sight to see! Many felt he had such moves that he didn’t need the cane and in some instances, they tried to take the cane away from him.

In 2014, Robert took Chaplaincy classes and received his credentials to become a Certified Chaplain and Ordained Minister under the Christian Chaplains Association of America. Chaplain Robert Johnson was called upon many times to render his gifts as a motivational/inspirational speaker to both adult and youth groups. Chaplain Robert Johnson was a member of Memorial Presbyterian Church, located in Roosevelt, N.Y. There he served with the Prison Ministry, Spoken Word (Drama) Ministry, and the Male and Adult Choirs.

Some of Robert's accomplishments are his recent selection by the Black Educators Committee, Inc. as one of its 2025 Legends; selection by the Uniondale High School Show Choir to receive the Lifetime Achievement Legends Award; his selection by Uniondale youth to receive the Strong Educator Award; his appointment to the Board of Directors for the Faith Mission Alcohol Crisis Center; his appointment to the Neighborhood Advisory Board, for the Rockaways and Broad Channel; and his numerous citations received for his community service work. Robert was the current

president of the Friends of the Uniondale Public library and the mentor to the Jr. Friends of the Uniondale Public Library.

In June 2023, Robert retired from his 17-year position as a teaching assistant. In November 2023, he was diagnosed with cancer. This was a point where he felt his unwavering faith would be tested. Robert would reference Hebrews 11:1, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” He would say, "With this faith I will continue to move forward to higher heights and greater greats. To God be the glory. Amen!”

But over the years, Robert experienced many health challenges: heart attack, stroke, etc. While in the hospital for a month learning how to walk again, he encouraged others and after being discharged returned to the hospital to give back by entertaining the staff through song. Through it all he kept his faith because FAITH makes all things possible.

Cynthia was an exceptional caregiver for Robert. She took him to all of his appointments and while in the hospital or rehab she was there every day without fail, despite work obligations. Cynthia was a faithful and loving partner to her “Boo” who faithfully and lovingingly returned the love.

Robert Lewis Johnson is survived by his long-time mate, Cynthia McManus and her son Alex; his son DeShonn Larkins, daughter LaTiesha Larkins and her daughter Amber; his son Robert Johnson Jr. (wife Katie) and their children Shaday, Heaven, Skye, Sire, along with Robert’s two great-grandchildren. He also leaves to mourn but rejoice in their memories of him, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, former co-workers, community members, the karaoke community, neighbors, friends, and church family.

The family wishes to acknowledge the love, cards, calls, visits, and prayers each of you has offered to us. We are grateful for your support and celebration of Robert’s life and gifts. TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

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