Edgar A. "Buddy" Johnson, Jr., 89, of Philadelphia, PA, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Brooklyn, New York, on December 9, 1935, to Edgar A. Johnson, Sr. and Madelyn (Mason) Johnson, Buddy lived a life marked by service, creativity, and passion.

Buddy proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force during the Korean War and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. He took great pride in the Tuskegee Airmen ("Red Tails") and their contribution to our nation's history. After his distinguished military service, he began a long and dedicated career as a machine engineer at the Philadelphia Navy Yard before retiring. Buddy's technical skills and commitment to excellence earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

He was an artist at his core. Buddy loved to paint, and his love for rose-gardening and music was deeply rooted in his family. His mother nurtured beautiful rose gardens during his childhood, and his father played piano for silent films in the early 1900s. This inspired Buddy's lifelong love of art and music, especially jazz. In the mid- and late-1970s, he frequently played bass with the legendary Sun Ra and his Arkestra, a cornerstone of Philadelphia's vibrant jazz scene. His artistry and rhythm brought joy to countless audiences and reflected his deep appreciation for the power of music.

Buddy also loved playing chess and taught others how to play (many think so he could beat them!). He loved sports & was a dedicated fan of baseball, football, and boxing. He cherished the opportunity to witness his beloved Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies achieve championship glory in recent years, a source of enormous pride and joy for him.

He will be remembered for his warmth, his creativity & spirit, and his unwavering love & dedication to family, friends, and his community. His life was a testament to resilience, artistry, and joy.

Buddy is preceded in death by his loving and devoted sisters Madelyn Morris and Barbara Green; and is survived by his sister, Sylvia Carter; son, Nigel Reed; his niece & nephew-in-law, Merle Carter & Jose Morales; Grandchildren, Roslyn & Brandon, dear friends Nate Terrell, Eloise & Ricardo Montero, and many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

A private ceremony and burial will be held at St. Martins in the Fields Episcopal Church, Philadelphia, PA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wings of Pride Program of the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. (https://tuskegeeairmen.org) supporting STEM education & scholarships for students to learn about aviation and the Red Tails' contribution to American history. https://tuskegeeairmen.org/support/donate