Ahmad T. Johnson

UTICA– Ahmad T. Johnson, forever 15, left us far too soon on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Though his time with us was brief, his heart sparked love in every aspect of his life as he gently walked among us—remembered always. Born in Utica on March 11, 2010, Ahmad is the dear son of his parents, T’Lina L. Swinea and Arron L. Johnson. He attended Columbus Elementary School, John F. Kennedy Middle School, and was currently a freshman at T.R. Proctor High School, Class of 2029. From the eyes of his mother, Ahmad was like a cool breeze with an amazing intellect—calm, cool, and collected, with no one quite like him. She described him as the great gift pack: sharp, a quick thinker, respectful, and the perfect child. Ahmad had a way of drawing people to him; many loved spending time with him and often wished they could keep him just a little longer whenever he visited. His father, reflecting on many memories, shared that Ahmad was a caring son who paid attention to others with the fullness of his heart and soul. He cared deeply about people, making it natural for him to show kindness and genuine regard in how he treated them. Ahmad’s siblings also shared loving reflections. Krysta Harper remembered her brother as smart, loving, kind, and funny. Liaja Swinea described him as a kind and sweet person who always made people laugh and loved sharing anime characters with others. Kyla Johnson spoke with joy about Ahmad’s humorous and funny personality, while also remembering his bravery. To her, he was her hero and like her other half—so much alike in many ways. Ava Swinea shared her heartfelt words about Ahmad, describing him as loving, kind-hearted, special, and trustworthy, someone who was simply so great to be around. Syre’ Swinea, only six years old, remembered his brother as cool, generous, and giving—someone who shared his games with him. He said an action figure he owns reminds him of Ahmad, and he cried from the heart, “I’m going to miss you, Ahmad.” To his grandmother Hannah Burgess, Ahmad was gentle, smart, and strategic. He often had thoughtful reasons for what he did and how he did it. He sometimes worked quietly in the background like a behind-the-scenes commando, but when he spoke, his words carried meaning, power, and strength. Uncle Fred Swinea Jr. described Ahmad as charming, loving, selfless, and warm-hearted—a big brother and protector to his siblings and family, often acting like the man of the house. Uncle Joseph Swinea remembered Ahmad as calm, cool, and collected, as well as determined and hardworking. Nothing stopped him from doing his best. Uncle Justin Douglas Swinea shared that Ahmad was smart, giving, and soft-hearted—someone who loved anime and who would do anything for his family. His great-grandmother, Shirley Burgess, remembered him as kind, obedient, supportive, and helpful, always showing love and care whenever he was around her. Ahmad had many interests that brought him joy. He loved drawing, expressing his creativity through art. He enjoyed spending time playing games on his PlayStation 5, and he deeply loved being around his family. Sports were also important to him. Ahmad enjoyed basketball, especially when playing with his Uncle Justin, and he loved boxing with his Uncle Joseph. He also shared special moments with his sister Liaja Swinea, playing PlayStation and watching anime together. Ahmad loved outdoor family adventures, including trips to the pool, the beach, arcades, and go-karting. These moments reflected the heart of a child who truly enjoyed life and family. Ahmad was recognized by his school in Boston, Massachusetts, as a student with unique talents and abilities. Because of this recognition, he was encouraged to apply to a noteworthy school designed for students with exceptional potential. Ahmad gathered his grades, met the qualifications, and took a bold step forward by submitting his application, demonstrating determination and promise for the future. Ahmad especially cherished time spent with family. Some of his favorite moments were simple but meaningful—playing games with his sister Liaja, enjoying anime together, and spending time with loved ones during family outings. Whether it was pool days, trips to the beach, visits to arcades, or go-kart racing, Ahmad enjoyed every opportunity to laugh, play, and create memories with the people he loved most. Ahmad enjoyed fellowshipping with others and had recently begun attending a local church, moments he shared with his father while experiencing expressions of God’s love. Ahmad had a playful and humorous personality. His sister Kyla Johnson remembered one of his favorite joking phrases that he would say with a smile: “It’ll be $25… it’ll be $25 dollas’, please.” Even in jest, Ahmad enjoyed the humor of getting “paid,” and his playful words often brought laughter to those around him. Ahmad is survived by his loving mother, T’Lina L. Swinea; his beloved father, Arron L. Johnson; his dear siblings, Krysta Harper, Liaja Swinea, Kyla Johnson, Ava Swinea, and Syre’ Swinea; his maternal grandmother, Hannah Burgess; his paternal grandmother, Anita Johnson; his maternal great-grandmother, Shirley Burgess. He is also survived by his only nephew, Ky’Sean Johnson; his aunts, Kayvonne Johnson and Stacy Blue; and his uncles, Maurice Johnson, Gerard Blue, Fred Swinea Jr., Joseph Swinea, and Justin Douglas Swinea; and a host of great-aunts and great-uncles. Ahmad is further survived by his cousins, Mekhi Johnson, Damien Johnson, Skyler Johnson, Gabriel Johnson, Obadiah Johnson, Khyree Williams, Kaycee Williams, and Kaylee Williams; and many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory. Ahmad also loved his pets, especially Chi Chi and Snow, who were part of the family he cared for deeply. He held close to his heart those who preceded him, his maternal grandfather, Frederick Swinea, Sr.; and his paternal grandfather, James Moncrief. IT’S REIGNING POEM: Poured out like rain, his love Beat on us, saturating our souls. Minutes, seconds, and days We are full of him—drenched. So now laughter turns to tears, Peace surpassing fears. Years spent with him will never stop, For the pounding of his loving rainfall is in us. And the reign of his loving joy has just begun, For now he too is bathed in relentless love. Visitation will be held Sunday, March 13, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Eannace Funeral Home, 932 South St., at the corner of Hammond Ave., Utica. Ahmad’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 6:00 p.m., immediately following the visitation. In honor of Ahmad, those wishing to offer support during this difficult time may make memorial contributions to his family. Envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. This obituary was lovingly composed by Ahmad’s family.

Ahmad T. Johnson

March 11, 2010 - February 24, 2026