George Donahue Johnson

George Donahue Johnson, 80, of Graceville, known as “Coach Johnson”, passed away at home on Sunday, August 23, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer. Born October 10, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama, to the late Samuel and Melvina Pate Johnson.

Johnson graduated from Graceville High School in 1963 where he served as the yearbook editor-in-chief, Class Salutatorian, manager of the football, basketball, and track teams as well as played on the school's Baseball team. He was a graduate of Chipola College and Florida State University. Coach Johnson began his teaching career at his alma mater as one of the school’s math teachers and basketball coach.

Coach Johnson became head basketball coach for the Graceville Tigers in 1973, a position he held for 31 years retiring from the position in 2004. In those years, Coach Johnson led the Tigers to more than a dozen district championships, numerous regional wins, and several bids in the Final Four as well as one state championship in 1988. Coach Johnson wanted to go back to work so he began teaching math in Marianna and then completed his teaching career with Cottondale Elementary School. Following a total of 42 years in coaching and teaching, Coach Johnson retired, enjoying fishing and going to all sports related events at FSU.

Preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Durell Johnson and Duane Johnson,

He leaves to cherish his memories, beloved wife Anne Johnson, sister-in-law Ruth Johnson, a host of nieces, nephews, and hundreds of Graceville Tigers Alumni.

In honor of Coach Johnson’s final wishes memorialization is with cremation and there will not be a formal service.

“A great coach does not just build a winning team, they build character, strength and integrity! You did that in the gym with your players, and you did that for those of us in your classroom! Thank you for making us all better people!!! DLP