Edwin R. “Ed” Johnson, 77, of Westmoreland, NH, passed away on July 27, 2026, at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH, after a short period of declining health. Known simply as "Papa" to those who knew and loved him, Ed leaves behind a legacy of deep family devotion, selfless community service, and the enduring impact of a truly dependable, hardworking man.

He was born on May 11, 1949, in Northampton, MA, to the late Russell Clark Johnson and Katherine (Liebl) Johnson. Ed grew up locally and graduated from Keene High School with the Class of 1967. He faithfully served his country in the U.S. Army from 1970 to 1972 as a member of the Ghost Riders during the Vietnam War.

Ed is survived by his loving wife of 14 years, Ellen (Fleuriel) Johnson; his cherished daughter, Wendi Hebert, and her husband, Jon (more son than son-in-law); and the grandchildren he adored, Evann and Brooke. He is also survived by his previous wife, Theresa Johnson, and her children, Timothy, Tammy, Heidi, and Heath (Brenda); his sisters, Kay Grimes and Pat Porter; and his brother, Bob Johnson (Carol). In addition to his parents, Ed was predeceased by his oldest brother, Russell “Gus” Johnson Jr.

Ed dedicated much of his life to serving his community through his profession and volunteer work. He worked for many years as a machinist, most recently at Sunset Tools in Keene, NH, until his retirement in 2015. Deeply committed to the safety of others, he served his communities for over 55 years as a firefighter. He was a proud member of the Chesterfield Fire Department from 1969 to 1977, and the Westmoreland Fire Department thereafter, where he served as Deputy Chief from 1994 to 2019. He was a lifetime member of the department at the time of his passing. Additionally, he faithfully served as the Cheshire County Fire Warden for over 21 years, starting in 2005 as a deputy and serving from 2012 to 2026 as warden.

Outside of his work, Ed found his greatest happiness in the great outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved spending time haying with his family. Ed was a master fabricator; there was nothing he couldn't repair, build, or figure out. He also had a deep love for animals; there were always dogs and cats by his side, including the three he leaves behind: his dog, Timber, and his cats, Smoky and Bandit.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 29th, at 11:00 AM at South Village Cemetery on Glebe Road in Westmoreland, NH. A Celebration of Life will follow immediately at 30 Hunt Road, Westmoreland, NH.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the NH State Fire Wardens Association, P.O. Box 67, Orford, NH 03777.