Theologian, Missionary, and Former Adventist Review Editor, William G. Johnsson, Dies at 88
11 March 2023 |
William G. Johnsson, author of more than 40 books and 1,000 articles, died in Loma Linda, California, on March 11, 2023, at 88 years old. Johnsson was a beloved theologian, missionary, professor, and orator. He was editor of the Adventist Review magazine from 1982 to 2006 and founding editor of Adventist World magazine from 2005 to 2006.
The Adventist Review has posted an obituary for Johnsson, honoring his life and work:
Johnsson was born in Adelaide, Australia, in 1934. After earning undergraduate degrees in technology and chemical technology, he attended Avondale College, where in 1959 he received a Bachelor of Theology degree and met his wife, Noelene.
He then attended Andrews University, where he earned a Master of Arts in systematic theology in 1966. In 1973, he got a PhD in biblical studies from Vanderbilt University. His dissertation was entitled “Defilement and Purgation in the Book of Hebrews.”
During his long career, Johnsson was a missionary to India from 1960 to 1975. At Andrews University, he served as professor of New Testament exegesis and theology from 1975 to 1980 and was associate seminary dean (1978-1980). In 1979, he was elected as the first president of the Adventist Society for Religious Studies.
Johnsson was also a trustee of the Ellen G. White Estate for most of the time he was editor of Adventist Review. After retiring in 2006, he served for seven years as part-time assistant to the General Conference president for Interfaith Relations.
Johnsson wrote more than 40 books and 1,000 articles. Since 2017, he published five books, including, Where Are We Headed? Adventism After San Antonio (2017); Jesus of Nazareth: His Life, His Message, His Passion (2018); Authentic Adventism (2018); Defilement and Purgation in the Book of Hebrews (2020); and Experiencing Romans (2021).
Information about a memorial service has not yet been released. More information will be posted as it becomes available.