Donel Lee Johnson was born on December 6, 1951 to the late James and Rosie Wilson Johnson.  Donel "Don" was a born adventurer who enjoyed traveling to different areas.

Don confessed hope in Christ as a child at the New Prosperity Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend P. R. Johnson.  He sang in the Youth Choir and later in the Young Adult Choir at New Prosperity.  Two of Don's favorite songs he often led were, "I'm On the Right Road Now", and "I Found All That I Need In the Lord".

Don attended Avon Elementary School in grades 1-8.  During his high school years, Don attended Norma C. O'Bannon High School.

During his adult years, Don was employed at several factories in Greenville, Mississippi, and the surrounding areas.  He also traveled to several states and worked in these areas for years before returning home to reside in Greenville, Mississippi.

Donel was preceded in death by his parents - James Johnson and Rosie Wilson Johnson, two sisters- Masie Lee Johnson and Luevenia Tolbert, and one brother - James W. Johnson.  He leaves to cherish his memories one son - Rodriguez Rhodeman; four sisters - Margaret J. Fields, Greenville, MS, Estella Johnson, and Dorinda M. Johnson, San Bernadino, CA, and Shelia D. Johnson, Spring, TX; four brothers, Melvin Johnson and Eligah (Wanda) Johnson, Greenville, MS, Phillip (Judy) Johnson, Fuquay, N.C., and Curtis L. (Venetta) Johnson, Spring, TX; one aunt - Lucille Wilson, Greenville, MS; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and extended relatives.