Clifford Steven Johnson, age 78, of Norton, Ohio, passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. 

“Steve”, as he went by his middle name, was born on December 10, 1946, in Cleveland, Tennessee, and moved to Barberton, Ohio, at a young age. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Barberton High School in 1964, Summa Cum Laude from The University of Akron with a B.S. in Accounting in 1968, and later Summa Cum Laude with a Master of Business Administration. He worked as auditor for the United States Department of Health and Human Services for 31 years. In his job, he went to colleges and universities, public and private, in all parts of Ohio, to ensure that the Federal grant money they received was properly accounted for and not misspent.  

Steve was very well-read and always curious to learn more and see another side to life. He frequented the Barberton Public Library and movie theaters, enjoying the intellectual stimulation that books and movies bring. He traveled to all 50 states as well as several continents around the world, taking interest in different geographies and cultures. 

Steve was not motivated by money, fame, or material things. Rather, he enjoyed the simpler side of life such as a good ear of corn from the garden, cold slice of watermelon, and tasty dumplings at Belgrade Gardens.  He loved spending a hot summer day cooling off in his sister and brother-in-law’s inground pool. He loved the flowers of spring and summer, the colors of the leaves in autumn, and the lights of Christmas. 

Family always came first for Steve, who was so generous with his time. He helped his siblings, nieces, and nephews with schoolwork and prepared many family members’ tax returns. He never missed a card for birthdays and holidays. He took his parents to visit other countries and see relatives in other states. When his father passed away, he took great care of his mother, tending to all of her needs for her remaining years.  

Steve was predeceased by his parents: William Herbert and Mamie Ruth Johnson; his nephew, Kenneth Froelich; and his best friend, Robert Wilsterman. 

He is survived by his siblings: Billie (James) Bagwell, Sharon (Gerald) Horak, Kathy (Dennis) Killinger, Connie (Steven) Ingles, and Herbert Johnson. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Sally Froelich, Mark (Michelle) Bagwell, Alison (Stephen) Hanudel, Joseph Horak, and Anna (Christopher) Flowers. He leaves behind eleven great-nieces and nephews. 

He leaves us way too soon, but we know he is in a better place without pain and is smiling upon us. He was very kind, giving, and lovely person.  

Private Funeral was held on Monday May 12, 2025, at Cox-McNulty Funeral Home in Barberton with burial at Greenlawn Cemetery.