Rashawn Markell Johnson, affectionately known as “Kel,” was born on August 29, 2006, in Lumberton, North Carolina, to Sierra Bethea and the late Kendrick Johnson. On April 26, 2025, Kel departed this life suddenly at Southeastern Regional Medical Center, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

     Raised in North Fairmont, NC, Kel was a bright spirit in his community. He was educated through the Fairmont School System, where he was known for his warm personality and infectious sense of humor. Even from a young age, Kel had a special way of lighting up every room he entered—his energy was magnetic, his smile disarming, and his jokes, while admittedly “corny,” always managed to bring joy to those around him. Markel was the proud owner of OMC LLC.

   Kel had a deep love for the outdoors. Nature was his sanctuary, and fishing was his passion. He was a prize-winning fisherman who found peace and purpose near the water, often bringing home stories (and fish) to share with pride. His love for the outdoors motivated him to start a pig farm.

  Known for his good manners, kind heart, and respectful demeanor, Kel carried himself with quiet confidence and charm that made a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was a true gentleman—polite, charismatic, and always ready with a compliment. His natural charm earned him the title of a “ladies’ man,” but his genuine spirit and protective nature made those around him feel genuinely safe and special.

   Kel was more than just a son, a father, or a friend—he was a bright light, a peacemaker, and a source of comfort. Though his time with us was far too short, the love he gave and the joy he brought will echo into the hearts of all who knew him.

   Kel was preceded in death by his father, Kendrick Johnson; brother, Tyshaun Bethea; grandmother, Margie Bethea; great-grandmother, Ruby Johnson; grandfather, Calvin Owens; and Grandmother, Edna Margaret Williamson; uncles, Richard     Johnson; and sister, Cousin Ayanna Thompson.

     He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his son, Elijah Markel      Johnson, His Dog, Marlo; His mother, Sierra Bethea; His sibling, Qu ’tina Bethea (TT); Joseph MacKinnon (JR); Grandparents, Tommy Lynn, Shawn McKay, & Tony McKay, Great Grandmother Vista Jones.  Five uncles: Tyrone Bethea, Joseph Bethea, Calvin Owens, Terrence Bethea, and Brandon Bethea (big unk). Twelve Aunts:      Veronia Bethea, Margaret Bethea, Latoya McKay, Shanika Johnson, Toni Cheatham, Shalonda Jackson, Kim Johnson, Marlena Brown, Tresa Hunt, Pamela Hunt, Melissa Bethea, and Crystal Bethea. One niece, Ty’year Bethea; One nephew, Payeton       Locklear; Special cousins Myekaishah, Dahjala, and Camiyah; Godfather Andre (Dre) Byrd; Anthony (fat cat) Thompson; Special Brothers Kamaney, KTI, Mike, Trell, Quay, Bolo, Black, Logan, Krazy K, Shiloh, Zay, Tyrone, TDog, Quissy, Pa, Stretch, Shivon, and special homeboy Longway, and a host of family, friends, and associates that he loved dearly.