News Summary
The legal community mourns the unexpected passing of esteemed attorney Samuel James Johnson. Known for his dedication and ethics, Sam’s legacy encompasses his significant contributions to law and his cherished role as a family man. Survived by his wife and daughters, tributes highlight his impact on many lives. A memorial service is set to honor his memory.
Austin, Texas – Renowned attorney Samuel James Johnson, affectionately known as Sam, passed away unexpectedly on July 13, 2025, at the age of 63. His sudden absence has left a notable void in the legal community and among those who knew him as a husband, father, and friend.
Born on May 8, 1962, in Austin, Texas, Sam was the youngest child of June Page and Judge Samuel Dodson Johnson, Jr. His upbringing included time in Hillsboro and Houston, with the family ultimately settling in Austin in 1973. Throughout his schooling, Sam was an active participant in many extracurricular activities, showcasing his leadership abilities early on. He attended Casis Elementary, Baker Junior High School, O. Henry Junior High School, and Austin High School. At Austin High, he was recognized as a National Merit Scholar, served as class president, and was a member of the debate team and the Varsity Football squad.
Sam pursued higher education at Baylor University, where he excelled as both a student and a leader. He was a Truman Scholar and a finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship, also becoming a member of the Phi Beta Kappa honor society. His college contributions included serving as president of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and being featured in the university’s 1983 calendar. He later chose to attend the University of Texas School of Law, spurred by a familial connection acknowledged through a photograph of his father at the institution.
Graduating with high honors in 1987, Sam’s academic accomplishments were further recognized by his memberships in the Texas Law Review, Chancellors, and Order of the Coif. After graduation, he went on to serve as a law clerk for Federal District Judge Sidney A. Fitzwater in Dallas, an experience that helped shape his esteemed legal career.
For over thirty years, Sam made significant contributions as a trial lawyer at Scott, Douglass, & McConnico, becoming a partner in 1990. Throughout his career, he was greatly admired by clients, colleagues, and even adversaries for his outstanding dedication to professional ethics and commitment to justice. Known for his warm demeanor and proactive approach, Sam built a reputation as a trustworthy advocate in the legal community. Besides his legal work, he held a profound passion for history, especially World War II, and enjoyed a number of personal interests, such as running, listening to loud music, and indulging in Blue Bell vanilla ice cream.
Sam was a devoted family man who cherished his role as a father to his twin daughters, Ella and Page. He played an active role in their lives, including coaching their volleyball team. Married to Maureen Whelan Johnson, Sam embraced not only their shared love for music and adventure but also welcomed her children as his own, demonstrating his commitment to family values.
He is survived by his wife, twin daughters, stepchildren, and a wide network of family and friends. A visitation will be hosted on July 19th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home in Austin. A memorial service is scheduled for July 20th at 3 p.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Austin. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Carter Center, the ACLU Foundation of Texas, or The Helping Hand Home for Children in Sam’s memory.
Sam Johnson’s contributions and legacy will be fondly remembered, leaving a lasting impact on both his community and the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Texas at Austin Announces New Leadership Appointments
Austin Attorney Samuel James Johnson Passes Away
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Samuel Johnson
- Houston Chronicle: HISD Basketball Semifinals
- Austin Daily Herald: Sam Johnson Sentenced
- Tennessean: National Signing Day Highlights
- Chicago Tribune: Vernon C. Johnson
- Wikipedia: Austin, Texas
- Google Search: Samuel Johnson Austin
- Google Scholar: Samuel Johnson Law
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas
- Google News: Samuel Johnson Austin
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
