Whether he was battling SEC opponents on the gridiron, cheering Volunteer teams from the stands, or working behind the scenes for the betterment of Tennessee athletics, Bill Johnson of Sparta, Tennessee, has served his alma mater and his state with distinction. Johnson grew up in his small town and attended White County High School and the Baylor School in Chattanooga before choosing the University of Tennessee, where he enrolled in 1953. Johnson was a gridiron star, playing guard and serving as co-captain of the 1957 squad. That same year, he was chosen as All-SEC and All-American. A stellar collegiate career behind him, Johnson graduated in 1958 with a B.S. in finance and entered the U.S. Army, where he served for two years before joining the Tennessee National Guard. He became a first lieutenant in 1960. Throughout his life, Johnson has always devoted his time and effort to Tennessee athletics. He served on the UT Athletics Board from 1972 to 1974 and is the former director of both the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and the East Tennessee Chapter of the National Football Foundation and Hall of Fame. He has also been an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. A successful businessman, as well, Bill Johnson has contributed in so many ways to his home state and his alma mater. His commitment to excellence has earned him a respected place among the honored members of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.
