He was born Aug. 11, 1947, in Brownsville, Tenn., to Otis and Lizzie Mae (Sangster) Johnson. On Aug. 31, 1997, in Elkhart, he married Mary E. Ellsworth.

She survives, along with three daughters, Teresa M. Duckworth, Rebecca L. (Ramon) Coleman and Robin (Antonio) Creer, all of Elkhart; one son, Russell Duckworth Jr. of Elkhart; 10 grandchildren; five brothers, Buddy Sangster of Detroit, L.V. Johnson and J.C. Johnson, both of Elkhart, Thomas Barbee of New York and Leroy Barbee of Milwaukee; and four sisters, Augusta (Lamar) Williams and Maryann Wells, both of Fort Wayne, Epelmay Brown of Wisconsin and Operene Plumber of California.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Mary K. Johnson; and two brothers, Melvin Williams and William Sangster.

Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Prayer House Church of God in Christ, with Pastor Robert J. Simon Sr. hosting the visitation. Cremation will follow. Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Johnson moved to Elkhart from Tennessee in 1975. He worked for Ace Cab Co. for more than 15 years. He especially enjoyed fishing and NASCAR, where Ryan Newman was his favorite driver. He also enjoyed barbecuing (even in the winter), watching TV westerns and singing karaoke, where he earned his moniker "Country Bob" because of his love of singing country and western songs.

Mr. Johnson was a veteran of the U.S. Army.

Memorials may be given to the Robert L. Johnson Memorial Fund, c/o Billings Funeral Home, Elkhart, IN 46514. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.billingsfuneralhome.com.