House Speaker Todd Gilbert issued the following statement:

“Our friend and colleague, Joe Johnson, has passed. Joe, a true gentleman, was one of Southwest Virginia’s most dedicated public servants. A strong advocate for his community, Joe was one of the kindest, nicest men I’ve ever met. I have no doubt that he has been reunited with his loving wife Ann, who left us just last month. I ask that all Virginians join me in prayer for his family at this difficult time.”