Richard Brinley Johnson

Richard “Rick” Brinley Johnson, 73, passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of October 1, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eileen and Gerald Johnson, and his older sister, Charlotte Ogden.

Rick is survived by his beloved wife, Janet “Jenny” Johnson; his older brother, Daniel “Dan” Johnson; his only son, Eric Johnson, and Eric’s partner, Paige Noce; and his two granddaughters, Ruby and Lorna Johnson. He also leaves behind his nephews, Chris and David Johnson and Jason and Kevin Reppy, along with his two beloved cats, Tommy and Teddy.

Music was a lifelong passion for Rick. He began playing professionally at just 13 years old and spent most of his life working as a musician in and around Morgantown. An accomplished bass and keyboard player, Rick performed alongside his brother Dan in many local bands, including Breakaway and the Billy Z Band, which won the Monongalia County Battle of the Bands in the 1980s.

As his health declined, Rick’s ability to perform diminished, but his love of music remained strong. He continued to support his son and granddaughter in their own musical journeys, sharing a passion that carries on through them.

Rick was an intelligent and capable man whose talents extended well beyond music. He remodeled his entire home, hanging every panel of siding and installing every window himself. He loved motorcycles, gadgets and computers and was an avid West Virginia University Mountaineers fan.

Rick met Jenny later in life, and she became the love of his life. They shared more than 20 years together, including 19 years of marriage.

Rick will be deeply missed, but his music will live on through all who carry love for him in their hearts.

Hastings Funeral Home has been entrusted with cremation arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com