When news hit, no one expected it. Holly Springs High School’s first principal Luther Johnson, 39, of High Point, passed away after an almost year-long battle with illness.

Luther Johnson died on Friday, June 26, to the shock of students and staff of HSHS.  “At first it felt surreal.” said HSHS graduate Josh Wells. “But after seeing him ill for so long, I guess it’s something you had to see coming.” 

Johnson was buried July 1 in his hometown amidst his friends and family. School-colored balloons were released shortly after his burial.

Throughout the school year, Johnson had spent months absent from the school, which led to Ramey Beavers temporarily replacing him as principal. However, Timothy Locklair, who was principal of Apex Middle School, has been selected as the new HSHS principal.

Johnson may be well known for his work as principal here in Holly Springs, however, Johnson had a lengthy career in public education. He worked as an assistant principal at numerous North Carolina schools such as Leesville Road Middle School, Wakefield High School, and East and West Forsyth High Schools. He received a bachelor’s degree from Winston-Salem University, a master’s at UNC-Greensboro, and was seeking a doctorate at NC-State in education.

As the first acting principal of a new school, Johnson’s tenure was met with great odds, mishaps, hard, work, success, and triumph. His legacy will live on at HSHS.

He will be remembered for such events as the water leak during the school‘s inaugural year, the “Golden Rules,“ connecting with students at pep rallies with the current dance craze, but above all, his demand for a tradition of excellence.

Johnson played a key role in shaping the identity of the school. He helped determine the school’s name, colors and the school mascot.

He interacted with students not only on an academic level, but a personal level as well. Online there is evidence of his charisma in videos at pep rallies, showcasing his ability to interact with students (as well as putting his dancing talent on display). Johnson was known for his mentoring approach with his students, trying to get to know each student individually.

“He took time to learn every student’s name. When he and I got to know each other, he always took time to ask me how I was doing,” said student Heather Schaffer.