NEWPORT NEWS — It is with great sadness that the family of Johnathan Raymond Opie, 40, announces he was taken from us on Saturday, June 19, 2021. His life journey began Jan. 27, 1981.
He attended the Williamsburg/York County Public Schools. At an early age, Johnathan, lovingly known as “Opie” or “Op,” quickly rose to be a basketball phenom excelling at Jamestown and York High School. He was instrumental in founding the NBL (Neighborhood Basketball League), which helped with bettering the community and inspiring inner city youth to play basketball and have big dreams.
Johnathan was a big family man. He was always ready and willing to go above and beyond for his family and friends. He rarely missed a celebration big or small. He enjoyed watching his beloved football team the Washington Redskins, playing cards, playing basketball, reminiscing over memories with friends and family, and anything to ensure others were always having a good time.
His father, John Opie, preceded him in death.
He leaves to cherish his loving memories his wife, Lakisha King; daughter, Akyiah Lightfoot; son, Ramon Johnson; mother, Robin Lee; stepmother, Joan Opie; brothers, Hurley James (Christie), Jamaal Opie (Ebony), and Lonnie Roacher (Candice); sister, Monique Redd (Javon); nieces and nephews, Ziare, Trinity, Makenzie, Makai, Laila, and Jaxton; special friend, Tareka Bailey; aunts, uncles, a host of cousins, and many friends.
Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday, June 25, at Nelsen Funeral Home, Williamsburg. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 26, at Bethel Restoration Center, Williamsburg. Burial will be held in Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery, Williamsburg.
Share online condolences with the family at Nelsen Funeral Home.
