Longtime WC assistant football coach Morris Johnson passed away

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Longtime Warren Central High School assistant football coach Morris Johnson has died, his family announced this week on social media.

Johnson spent more than three decades coaching in Warren County, helping guide the Warren Central Vikings football program from the early 1970s into the 21st century. He began his coaching career in 1971 at Davidson High School in St. Joseph, Louisiana, before moving to Vicksburg to join the Warren Central program.

Johnson first coached the junior high and ninth-grade teams at Warren Central, compiling an impressive 32-6-1 record. He was later promoted to the varsity team, where he served under longtime head coach Robert Morgan Sr. Throughout his 30-year tenure with the Vikings, Johnson coached multiple position groups, including wide receivers, offensive and defensive linemen, and tight ends.

In addition to football, Johnson also served as Warren Central’s track and field coach. He led the program to a state championship in 1987.

He retired in 2002 at the age of 62, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and dedication to student-athletes.

Funeral services for Johnson will be held Friday, June 6, at Lakeview Memorial Funeral Home, 2102 Clay St. in Vicksburg. Public viewing is scheduled from 1 to 6 p.m., followed by a family hour from 6 to 7 p.m.

A celebration of life will take place Saturday, June 7, at 11 a.m. at Travelers Rest M.B. Church, 718 Bomar Ave. in Vicksburg. Interment will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery, with a repast open to the public at the church.