News Summary
The Austin community mourns the unexpected loss of beloved attorney Samuel James Johnson, known as ‘Sam’, who passed away at 63. A prominent legal figure and dedicated father, Sam’s legacy is marked by his academic achievements and deep connections with family and friends. His impact on the community is profound, as he leaves behind a rich history of excellence in law, passion for history, and cherished memories with his twin daughters and extended family. Memorial services are set for July 19 and 20th.
Austin – Beloved attorney Samuel James Johnson, affectionately known as “Sam,” passed away unexpectedly at the age of 63 on July 13, 2025, at his residence. His sudden departure has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and the Austin community.
Sam was born on May 8, 1962, to June Page and Judge Samuel Dodson Johnson, Jr. as their youngest child. After spending his early years in Hillsboro and Houston, he moved to Austin in 1973. Sam’s education began at Casis Elementary, followed by Baker Junior High, O. Henry Junior High, and Austin High School. He was an active student at Austin High, participating in the debate team and playing Varsity Football. His leadership skills earned him the position of President of the Class of 1980, and he was distinguished as a National Merit Scholar.
Following his high school graduation, Sam attended Baylor University, where he excelled academically and was recognized as a Truman Scholar and a Rhodes Scholar finalist. He was a proud member of Phi Beta Kappa, served as President of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, and participated in the NoZe Brotherhood. In 1983, he gained recognition as Mr. January in the Men of Baylor calendar.
Sam went on to pursue his law degree at the University of Texas School of Law, inspired by a photograph of his father during a campus visit. While at law school, he demonstrated academic excellence and was involved with Texas Law Review, Chancellors, and the Order of the Coif. He graduated with high honors in 1987 and began his legal career clerking for Federal District Judge Sidney A. Fitzwater in Dallas.
In 1990, Sam became a partner at Scott, Douglass, & McConnico, where he dedicated more than three decades of his life as a trial lawyer. He earned the respect of both his clients and colleagues, establishing a reputation for excellence in his field.
Outside of his professional accomplishments, Sam had a love for history, particularly World War II, and enjoyed simple pleasures like Blue Bell vanilla ice cream and loud music. A lover of the outdoors, he often wore cargo shorts, enjoyed running, and cherished his time with his Labrador Retrievers. Sam was known for his engaging storytelling and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He was a familiar face at Maudie’s Tex-Mex on Lake Austin, where he formed strong friendships with both staff and fellow patrons.
Sam’s family meant the world to him. He was a dedicated father to his twin daughters, Ella and Page, often engaging in their activities and passions. Among his many achievements, he proudly coached their Heartbreakers volleyball team, steering them to a Division Championship win in 2018. The bond he shared with his daughters was further enriched by their mutual love for Marvel movies and participating together in Girl Scout activities. Sam met his wife, Maureen Whelan Johnson, about ten years ago, building a joyful life filled with music and adventure. He embraced her children, Timothy, Sarah, and Kevin Swanson, as his own stepchildren.
Sam is survived by his wife, twin daughters, stepchildren, and numerous family members and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Janet Holubec.
Family visitation is scheduled for July 19, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home in Austin. A memorial service will follow on July 20, 2025, at 3 p.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Austin. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be directed to The Carter Center, ACLU Foundation of Texas, or The Helping Hand Home for Children.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Samuel Johnson Obituary
- Wikipedia: Samuel Johnson (lawyer)
- Austin Daily Herald: Sam Johnson Sentenced
- Google Search: Samuel Johnson legacy
- NY Times: Sam Johnson Obituary
- Google Scholar: Samuel Johnson law
- Statesman: Buda Johnson Football Coach
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Samuel Johnson
- Austin Daily Herald: Supreme Court Case
- Google News: Samuel Johnson attorney
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