He joined “The Tennessean” as a copy boy in 1918 and retired as sports editor in 1970. In between, Raymond Johnson built a monumental career as a sportswriter and editor. A native of Humphreys County and a Hume Fogg High School graduate, Johnson had a great impact on sports in Tennessee and around the nation. “No sports writer or editor ever was more loyal to his readers or subordinates,” said John Bibb, who succeeded Johnson as sports editor of “The Tennessean” in 1970. “He had a great love for the games and a special appreciation for underdogs.” Remembered as a cigar smoker whose gruff exterior belied his soft inner demeanor, Johnson devoted a great deal of time to promoting Golden Gloves boxing. According to Raymond Duncan, a five-time champion in 1949-1956, Johnson’s influence and support “kept a lot of us boys out of reform school. If he hadn’t been in it, there probably wouldn’t have been any Golden Gloves in Nashville.” Johnson was also considered an authority on horse racing, and covered many Kentucky Derbies. After retiring as sports editor, Johnson spent three years as director of public relations at Churchill Downs. “For Raymond Johnson, sports writing was more love than labor… Through his work, “The Tennessean” gained a national reputation for its coverage of sports.” These words from “Tennessean” publisher John Seigenthaler sum up the proud legacy Raymond Johnson left during his illustrious career.
