Pastor Manson B. Johnson II, the shepherd of Holman Street Baptist Church for 43 years and a force in the Third Ward community, died May 31 from complications of COVID-19.

He became pastor of Holman Street in 1977 and under his leadership, the church’s membership and ministries grew.

He earned a Bachelors in History and Government from Texas Southern University and joined Holman Street as a student.

He earned a degree in mathematics from Prairie View A&M University.

Survivors include his wife, Zelda Gray Johnson; children, Manson “Bracy” Johnson III, Matthew Johnson and Michelle Johnson Major, and seven grandchildren.