Asheville Community Mourns the Passing of Arnold J. Johnson

Asheville native and beloved community member Arnold Joseph Johnson, affectionately known as “ToTo,” departed this life on September 10, 2025.

Arnold was born and raised in the East End community of Asheville and was a proud graduate of Asheville High School Class of 1975. He went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Army until an injury led to his discharge. Following his military service, Arnold was employed at Dave Steel Company in Asheville, where he worked until his retirement.

He will be deeply missed by his devoted wife, Mrs. Frances M. Johnson, as well as his cherished children, grandchildren, brothers, nieces, nephews, and a host of other family members and friends whose lives he touched.

A celebration of life for Mr. Arnold J. Johnson will be held at 12 noon on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Nazareth First Missionary Baptist Church, 146 Pine St., Asheville, NC 28801. He will lie in state one hour prior to the service.

Interment will follow at Western Carolina Veterans Cemetery, 962 Old US Hwy. 70, Black Mountain, NC 28711.

Avery’s Memorial Chapel of Asheville, NC, is entrusted with the arrangements.