GA Rep. Rhonda Taylor issues statement on passing of Rockdale County Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor Kenny Johnson

ATLANTA – State Rep. Rhonda Taylor (D-Conyers), chair of the Rockdale County House Delegation, today issued a statement regarding the recent passing of Rockdale County Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor Kenny Johnson. 

Johnson died on Tuesday, Oct. 8, after testifying before a panel of state lawmakers about the dangers posed by the BioLab chemical explosion, which occurred on Sept. 29. State Rep. Viola Davis, a registered nurse who said she has worked for 25 years in the Intensive Care Unit, rushed to Johnson’s aid to administer CPR after he spoke, walked out of the room and collapsed in a hallway. Rep. Davis said she and four others took turns performing chest compressions in assisting him until paramedics arrived. The Fulton County Medical Examiner later pronounced Johnson’s death at Grady Hospital. The GBI is investigating Johnson’s death. Johnson was 62.

A candlelight vigil is being held to remember Johnson today (Oct. 15), 6 p.m., at the home of Rockdale community activist Josie Dean, 1524 Flat Shoals Road, S.W., Conyers. 

Rep. Taylor expressed the void left in the community with Johnson’s passing in the following statement: 

“It is with deep sorrow and a profound sense of loss that we, the Rockdale County House and Senate Delegation, extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Kenny Johnson, the Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor for Rockdale County. Kenny’s passing after his passionate testimony at the BioLab chemical fire hearing has left a void in our community that words cannot fully express.

“Since his election in 2018, Kenny has been a tireless advocate for environmental justice and the well-being of Rockdale County’s residents. His unwavering commitment to addressing the concerns and needs of our community was evident in every action he took, from organizing efforts to improve our quality of life to holding companies accountable for their environmental impact. Kenny’s dedication was on full display in his last public appearance, where he spoke with conviction about the dangers posed by the BioLab chemical fire, underscoring the importance of protecting the health and safety of our citizens.

“We honor Kenny’s legacy by pledging to continue the work he so passionately championed. As we navigate this time of grief, we are inspired by his example and will strive to uphold the principles he stood for—justice, transparency, and community service.

“Please accept our deepest sympathy during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”

 Representative Rhonda Taylor represents the citizens of District 92, which includes portions of DeKalb and Rockdale counties. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2020 and currently serves on the Budget and Fiscal Affairs Oversight, Juvenile Justice and Special Rules committees.