Theodore “Tighteyes” Johnson

Theodore “Bobby” “Tighteyes” Wilton Johnson was born on November 28, 1942, in Lackawanna, NY to Genevieve Pelham Johnson and McCoy Jacobs. He grew up in Buffalo, New York graduating from Lafayette High School and went to Kentucky State University then later transferring to Wilberforce University. Because he enjoyed sports, he majored in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation. Since Wilberforce didn’t have HPER classes, Bobby took classes at neighboring Central State University. He often said, “I enrolled at Wilberforce, but never took a class there.” Eventually, he transferred to Central State University where he met his future wife, Terry Wiggs. Terry and Bobby married in August 1967 and moved to Dayton, Ohio where he finished his education. He graduated from Central State University in December 1968 and received his Master’s degree from Xavier University in 1972. After graduating he began his teaching career at Roosevelt Junior High School where he taught Health and Physical Education and coached basketball. He also taught at Beechcroft, Walnut Ridge and served as Home School Community Agent for Columbus Public Schools.

Bobby loved playing tennis and joined a club at Wolfe Park where he traveled with them to tournaments around the country.

Bobby’s love of sports eventually moved to golf when he received a set of golf clubs as a gift. He would play tennis in the morning, then go to a golf course later. Eventually golf became his game of choice, and he played as often as he could. After he retired from teaching, he joined the Wednesday Retired Golf Group so he could play more. In 2001, Bobby and Terry bought a house in Florida so he could play year-round.

Bobby’s other passions were his family and his alma mater, Central State University. He was President of his family organization, The Pelham Foundation and served on their board.
Bobby served on the Board of Central State University from 1976 to 1985. His passion for education was strong.

While at CSU, he met many lifelong friends, due to these relationships, he joined the board of the Michael L. Pye Scholarship Fund out of Detroit, Michigan.

Bobby enjoyed traveling with friends and family and was a passionate Buffalo Bills fan.

On May 29, 2022, Bobby transitioned to be with the Lord.

Bobby was proceeded in death by his parents, Genevieve Pelham Johnson and McCoy Jacobs; son, Michael Theodore Cavins; siblings, Julia Porter, Earl Johnson, Nathaniel Johnson, Ruth Jeanette Johnson, and Celma Bell; and best friends, Michael Pye and Wendall Tomlin.

Bobby leaves to celebrate his life his wife, Terry; children Tara, Theodore II (Faith), and Kelley Drew; brother, Carl W. (Peggy); grandchildren, Theodore III, Kenneth, Alise (Theodore and Faith), Quincy Drew (Lindsey), Miles Drew (Kelley), Jasmine, Mychael, and Jade (Michael); many other nieces, nephews, cousins, great grandchildren, family members, and friends.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Central State University in honor of Theodore “Tighteyes” Johnson

Visitation 11:00am and Memorial Service 12:00pm Saturday, June 11, 2022 at City of Grace, 3350 Allegheny Ave.