GAFFNEY - He was known as Gene to some, Earl to others, and even Mr. Johnson to a few - but most knew him as Weasel (even Uncle Weasel to a few). After 22 years of sobriety, Gene Earl Johnson died on his AA birthday, Oct. 12, 2007, after a brave struggle with lung cancer. He was a member of Oakdale Baptist Church in Cowpens, where he was baptized on Aug. 17, 2003.

Although born in Spartanburg, he left home at a very early age and was welcomed with open arms by the Love Generation from Atlanta to Haite-Asbury to Woodstock. He was known as one of Spartanburg's first "Hippies."

He was married for 32 years to his wife, Patty (Magee) Johnson. More importantly, he was a stay-at-home dad and was devoted to the loves of his life, his two sons, Jacob Matthew Johnson and Peter Matthew Johnson. He is also survived by his mother, Jean Ellen Johnson; his mother-inlaw, Evelyn Magee; and his sister, Donna Jane Edwards. He was predeceased by his father, John E. (Jack) Johnson, and his brother, Joe E. Johnson.

Weasel was a self-taught guitarist and avid fan of rock and roll music. He was also a long-time member of the South Carolina Gamefowl Breeders Association, and was known in the pit for his White Tornado gamecocks and his own "Brownhead" roosters, as well as his custom-made gaffs.

Graveside services were held Sunday, Oct. 14, 2007, at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested that donations be sent to the Gaffney Soup Kitchen, 119 E Birnie Street, Gaffney, S.C. 29340; or The Soup Kitchen, Second Presbyterian Church, 438 N. Church St., Spartanburg, S.C. 29303.

An online guest register is available at www.floydmortuary.com.

Floyd's North Church Street Chapel was in charge of arrangements.