Obituary of Basil O Johnson

Basil Johnson Basil Johnson age 76, a resident of Las Vegas, NV. passed away Sunday June 11, 2017. He was born December 14, 1940 to Bruce and Mary Johnson in Nassau, Bahamas. His siblings are Sydney Johnson, Ann Johnson, Eric Johnson, Marsha Johnson-Knowles and Lillian Johnson-Major, all residing in Nassau Bahamas. Basil spent the majority of his childhood in Nassau, Bahamas, growing up, he and his family also spent time in Reading, Berkshire, England and Florida. Basil had a desire to pursue a career as a gourmet chef. He decided to leave Nassau and relocate to The United States of America. He attended Culinary school in Las Vegas, NV and graduated shortly thereafter starting his career as a Gourmet Chef in Las Vegas, NV in the late 60's. Basil met Geraldine Kessay in Las Vegas, NV and from that union, they had four children; Monique Johnson, Erika Johnson, Gerald Johnson and Gavin Johnson, raising all of his children in Southern Nevada. Basil was a very successful Gourmet Chef becoming one of the few, African American, Executive Chefs in the early 70's. He opened the first Tony Roma's located at the Stardust Hotel Casino then successfully opened numerous restaurants throughout Southern Nevada. He moved to Palms Springs in 1990 where he opened his very own restaurant making it one of the most successful in Palm Springs for several years. After his successful run, Basil sold his restaurant and moved to Reno, NV. He was employed as a Pastry Chef, at Harrah's Hotel Casino for nine years often bringing joy and happiness to many of the patrons while serving his famous desserts. When he wasn't tantalizing the palate with his Gourmet dishes and desserts, Basil enjoyed listening to music, watching sports, spending time with friends and traveling. He relocated to Las Vegas in October 2016 to spend time with his family and eight months later, God called him home, certainly in need of a Gourmet Chef. Basil is survived by two daughters; Monique Johnson-Neill and Erika Johnson, son-in-law Barrick Neill; nine grandchildren; Sariah Johnson, Dallas Johnson, Chanel Sturdivant, Nicole Falley, Justin Falley, Gavionna Johnson, Ayrielle Johnson, India Johnson, Gavin Johnson, Jr.; and one great granddaughter; Zionne Johnson. He leaves behind family in Nassau, Bahamas and Whiteriver, AZ. He is also survived by his Harrah's famil, as well numerous friendships he has developed throughout his life. His final resting place will be Nassau, Bahamas. A memorial service is planned at Kraft Sussman Funeral and Cremation Services on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at 2:00pm. Family and friends are welcome to attend to share memories and stories of Basil. His final resting place will be held at a later date in Nassau, Bahamas. The family of Basil Johnson would like to thank everyone for their prayers, cards and support. Everyday of life was intended to be good and Basil Johnson celebrated life and enjoyed people. We are blessed to have our Dad as long as we did so please feel free to share your moments you experienced with Basil either through this Website or email.