Johnnie Richard

Love

Johnnie Richard Love, 67, was born on December 14, 1958, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Pastor Frank and Sister Dorothy Love. In the early morning hours of March 4, 2026, he peacefully transitioned at home, surrounded by his beloved wife, and family.

From an early age, it was clear that God had placed something very special inside of him. At just two years old, he began showing his love for music, playing on the steps of his home. His parents later purchased a child's piano, and without any formal training, he began teaching himself how to play. Over time, those simple sounds turned into beautiful melodies. By the age of three, he was already singing, developing a deep connection to both music and ministry. Johnnie had a rare and remarkable gift he could hear music and play it by ear, a talent that amazed many throughout his life.

As he grew, his gift became evident to everyone around him. While attending DeVilbiss High School, Johnnie continued to develop his musical abilities and became a lead singer in the adult choir at a young age. Soon after, he began directing choirs as well. Through his anointed voice and musical gift, he brought joy, encouragement, and the spirit of worship to many congregations.

Johnnie later founded the gospel group Johnnie Love & Company and recorded a CD entitled "We've Got Plenty Good News to Tell You." He worked various jobs throughout his life, but his true passion and lifelong calling was music ministry. He not only played for services, but also traveled, taught, directed choirs, and prepared groups for concerts, workshops, and special occasions.

He faithfully served many families through his work with funeral homes, including Newcomer, Dale-Riggs Funeral Home, and The House of Day. Through his gift, he provided comfort, peace, and healing during some of life's most difficult moments. His music spoke when words could not.

Johnnie Love faithfully served for over 50 years at Greater St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church as a dedicated musician, where he played the piano and organ and directed the choir. Under the leadership of the late Reverend Robert W. Lyons, Sr., his exceptional gift and commitment led to him being rightfully bestowed the title of Minister of Music, making him one of the longest-serving church musicians in the city of Toledo.

In 2017, Johnnie was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Yet even through his illness, he continued to minister through song and music for as long as his body would allow. His strength, faith, and commitment to God never wavered.

Johnnie met the love of his life in 1990, and on December 26, 2002, he was united in holy matrimony to Sis. Wanda Love. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in faith, love, and family, becoming a family of seven.

Johnnie was truly special to so many people. He never hesitated to help anyone in need and always carried a heart full of love. To some, he was a father figure; to others, a big brother, a grandfather, a cousin, a friend, and a mentor. To many, he was simply "Uncle Johnnie," especially to the youth. He had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and loved.

Those closest to him will always remember the little things like the candy and snacks he kept tucked away in his church bag, always making sure his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews had something sweet. It didn't matter the time or place, he never hesitated to give. Even in his later days, that never changed he continued to think of others first. What may have seemed like a small gesture was, in truth, a reflection of the immense love and care he carried in his heart.

Known for his humble spirit, kind heart, and unwavering faith in God, Bro. Johnnie Love often reminded others to "see" and to "pay attention." One of his favorite scriptures was Isaiah 54:17, which he would say in his own way:

"No weapons... no weapons... no weapons formed against me shall prosper."

And if you knew him, you already know how he felt about Mondays.

His life was a true reflection of love, service, and dedication to God's purpose.

Over decades of faithful devotion, Bro. Johnnie Love touched countless lives and blessed everyone he encountered. Through his music, his wisdom, and his presence, he uplifted and encouraged many along the way.

Johnnie Richard Love will be remembered not only for his extraordinary musical gifts, but for the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the faith he carried throughout his life. He truly was a Minister of Music, and his legacy will forever live on in our hearts.

He was preceded in death by his parents ; brothers Frank Lindsey and Rev. Lee Love; Aunt, Octavia Knowden; Uncle, John "Jerry" Moore; Brother-in-love, Wardell Meyers; and a host of special friends.