Bill > HR0544

This resolution mourns the passing of Bishop Joseph Hosea Johnson, a prominent community leader and religious figure from Peoria, Illinois, who passed away on October 22, 2025. Born in Mississippi in 1935 as one of 17 children, Johnson dedicated his life to public service and ministry, serving as a community worker for the Illinois Department of Corrections, becoming the first African American director of Juvenile Court Services, and serving as pastor of Star of Hope Full Gospel Church since 1968. Throughout his life, Johnson was known for his extensive community involvement, including mentoring young people, helping send 30 students to college, purchasing homes and cars for others, and participating in prison ministry for over 31 years. He was also an international missionary, extending his ministry to countries like Liberia, Trinidad, and Tobago. The resolution honors his legacy of compassion, service, and leadership, extends condolences to his surviving family members, including his son Jonathan, and resolves to present a copy of the memorial to his family as an expression of sympathy from the Illinois House of Representatives.

https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=544&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HR&SessionID=114&GA=104