In the words of John Wooden, “A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life.” This quote exemplifies the life, work and legacy of Tommy Lee Johnson Jr. who died on January 4.
Coach Johnson was born on August 21, 1937, to Tommie Lee Johnson Sr. and Odie Huff Johnson. Religion played a part in his life as he attended Damascus Missionary Baptist Church, he was a part of the men’s chorus at Windsor Village United Methodist Church, and later in life held membership at United Faith Missionary Baptist Church. He married the love of his life Doris Jewel (White) Johnson in 1962, and in this union, they had two children (Tommy Lee Johnson, III and Dr. Saardia E. Johnson).
He attended Booker T. Washington where he was a four-sport participant (basketball, football, baseball, and track), and held the state record in the broad jump. After high school, he attended Prairie View A & M University (PV) and received his Bachelor’s degree in Education and Master’s in Administration and Supervision. During his time at PV, he played basketball and was the captain of the golf team where he won the SWAC Men’s Golf Championship.
1966 Team Picture First Row: Coach W. Roberson, Coach M. Richards, Leonard Dunlap, Robert Santee, Coach Tommy Johnson, Coach Joe Jacques Second Row: Alvin Deavero, Elessie Jones, Leroy Kessee, James Turner, Melvin Jones, Willie Hicks Third Row: Sam Johnson, Pluke Deavero, Laydel Bryant
Coach Johnson started his coaching career at the historical Carverdale High School (1960-1969) in the Cypress Fairbanks School District (Cy-Fair), where he coached football, basketball, baseball, and track. He took his basketball team to the state playoffs in 1965 (won a state title), 1966 (won a state title), 1967, and 1968.
Carverdale High School was once the school that black students would attend before integration. The creation of this school started in 1925, when a German dairy farmer donated the one-room Tanner Road farmhouse, which was converted into a classroom for the school. Initially, the site was the first school for black students living in the Carverdale Community (once known as Independence Garden) and housed Greater Macedonia Baptist Church.
1965 Team picture Sam Johnson behind number 20, Melvin Jones, Abe Hamilton, Leonard Dunlap, Frank Henry, Willie Hicks, Robert Santee, Coach Tommy Johnson, CyFair Superintendent, Carverdale Principle W. M. Batts, Coach Albert James, Alvin, Deavero, George Hicks, Coach M. Richards, (kneeling) Elessie Jones
The farmhouse was then moved to Dancy Road and the school was named Fairbanks Colored School and served students in grades first through sixth in 1926. The school expanded and they gained their first principal in 1951, changed the name to Fairbanks Elementary School, and continued to grow each year. In 1956, the school served students in grades first through twelfth, and the name of the school was changed to Carverdale School. In 1967 the federal government gave The Cy-Fair School district a mandate to desegregate, and the board voted to close Carverdale in 1970.
Since it was the beginning of integration, Coach Johnson made history becoming the first black coach at Cy Fair High School. In 1971, his basketball team defeated Wheatley High School in their first state championship. He retired from the Cy-Fair School District after 34 years in 1994.
He was an active member of the Booker T. Washington and Prairie View A&M Alumni Association, and the Lone Star Golf Association. In addition, he was inducted into the PVILCA (Prairie View Interscholastic League Coaches Association) Hall of Honor and the Texas Coaches Hall of Fame in 2009.
It is through his work and involvement with the community that will continue to keep his legacy alive.
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
