Rev. Dr. Aaron J. Johnson, 93, is one of those rare individuals whose life has been defined not by applause or recognition, but by steady, faithful service. His type of service seeks no attention yet still makes a significant impact. In acknowledgment of his contributions, the Fayetteville City Council honored Dr. Johnson with a City Proclamation and a coin on Monday, Feb. 9. Although he was unable to attend the meeting, Councilman D.J. Haire and Mayor Pro Tem Derrick Thompson made the official presentation to him at his home on Friday, Feb. 13.
Councilman Haire said, "Dr. Aaron Johnson is my friend. He has been a pioneer in many areas and remains a significant influencer for our Black communities!"
Communities aren't built on grand speeches; they are formed through small, consistent actions and dedicating hours behind the scenes to ensure that everyone is cared for. Dr. Johnson has embraced this truth and, in doing so, has become something invaluable: a living example of what community truly means.
Dr. Johnson was elected to three terms on the Fayetteville City Council (1979 - 1985) and served as mayor pro tem. Marshall Pitts, Fayetteville's first African American mayor, said: " As a young man who was new to the local political scene in the late 1990's, I quickly discovered that most of the established politicians of the day were anything but warm and friendly towards me; however, Rev. Johnson was just the opposite. Even though we were from different political parties and different generations, I always found him to be encouraging and supportive."
In 1960, Dr. Johnson arrived in Fayetteville to become the Pastor of Mount Sinai Missionary Baptist Church. During his time in this role, several significant developments took place: a new church building was constructed, a daycare center was established, and a housing complex for low-income families was created.
Some people spend their entire lives discussing what should be done, while others act and make it happen. Dr. Johnson dedicated his service to the community as the North Carolina Secretary of Corrections (1985 - 1992) during Governor Martin's administration. He was also appointed to the Public Telecommunications Commission, the Governor's Drug Cabinet, the Governor's Crime Commission, and various other positions.
For decades, Dr. Johnson has been a steadfast presence in our community—always showing up, helping others, and leading with humility. What makes his story even more remarkable is that he has never led with ego. Born on March 6, 1933, in Willard, NC, he grew up in humble circumstances. Dr. Johnson earned his B.A. in Social Studies from Shaw University and his B.D. in Theology from Shaw Divinity School. He also received two honorary degrees: Doctor of Divinity and Doctor of Humane Letters from Shaw University.
Throughout his journey, he has never felt the need to dominate a room or demand recognition. Instead, he leads with kindness, integrity, and a quiet strength that has earned him respect across generations.
We should honor our elders while they are still alive, not only after they are gone. This is one of those moments.
So today, we pause to say thank you.

(Photo courtesy of Troy Williams)