Thomas "TJ Phillips" Johnson

Thomas “TJ Phillips” Johnson, 66, passed away unexpectedly on June 8, 2025, departing peacefully in his sleep. He was born in 1958 to Marjorie Ann Poe and Lee Roy Phillips, and adopted later in life by his stepfather, Dr. Charles Johnson. He is survived by his wife, Judy, and his son, Eric. TJ grew up in Rogersville, Tennessee, where he started his radio career working part-time at WRGS at 15 years old. He received a full scholarship to study medicine at Vanderbilt University where he planned to follow in his stepfather’s footsteps. After one year at Vanderbilt, he knew in his heart that radio was his true passion. He went on to work in radio until 1979 when a dear friend changed the course of his life and convinced him to join the army. He was especially proud of his expert marksmanship, a skill he would later pass on to his son.

TJ was assigned to work in Munich, Germany as the morning radio show host. It was in Munich that he and Judy met and became engaged after only four months. They shared 44 incredible years together, and even that was not long enough. TJ has worked in Charleston for over 30 years doing his best to entertain and inform. During his career he had the pleasure of meeting so many talented musicians. Some of his favorite interviews were Kris Kristofferson, Elton John, Tim Curry, and Willie Nelson. He had the deepest respect for songwriters and was a champion for local musicians in the community. He was especially proud of the work that he did to raise money for children and animals.

We are so proud of the selfless, caring, and humble man that he was. He had the ability to make everyone feel like a lifelong friend, and he loved meeting every single one of you. The outpouring of support on social media and in person has been a great comfort to us. A public reception will be held on Saturday, June 14 from 5 PM to 7 PM at Stuhr Funeral Home (J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., West Ashley Chapel, 3360 Glenn McConnell Parkway, Charleston, SC 29414). With apologies, we have chosen to forgo a formal service and urge you to honor his memory by deed instead. In lieu of flowers, please donate to an animal welfare charity of your choosing.

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